'Shy people believe alcohol helps them to steady their nerves and feel more confident, but this can lead to a reliance on alcohol and ultimately a range of additional physical, social and emotional problems,' she said.

The new programme developed by Macquarie offers participants 10 individual cognitive behavioural therapy sessions at no cost. Medication is also offered as an option, said a Macquarie release.

Treatment sessions are conducted with experienced clinical psychologists and are based on the most up-to-date research findings and knowledge of social anxiety and alcohol dependence.