Recent research suggests social anxiety is on the rise. Beyond the usual feelings around making awkward small talk, many people are struggling to socialise at work, meet new friends or even leave their own house.

It's estimated that around one in 10 Australians will experience social anxiety at some point in their lifetime, and younger people are particularly vulnerable. 

So have we lost the ability to connect with each other, and is the solution as simple as flexing our social muscles?