On this page, you will find everything you need to know about Social Anxiety Disorder.
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social Anxiety Disorder (previously known as Social Phobia) is a mental health condition in which the affected person experiences intense and persistent fear of being negatively judged and/or watched by others.
What are the symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder?
Psychological symptoms:
- Excessive self-consciousness and anxiety in everyday social situations.
- Intense worry for days, weeks, or even months before an upcoming social event.
- Intense fear of being watched or judged by others, especially by unfamiliar people.
- Fear of acting in ways that may embarrass or humiliate the individual.
- Fear that others will notice their nervousness.
Physical symptoms:
- Facial blushing.
- Shortness of breath.
- Upset stomach or nausea.
- Trembling.
- Rapid heartbeat or chest tightness.
- Sweating or hot flashes.
- Dizziness or fainting.
Behavioral symptoms:
- Avoiding social situations to a degree that limits activities or disrupts one’s life.
- Staying silent or hiding to avoid attention and embarrassment.
- A strong dependence on having someone around when going out.
What causes Social Anxiety Disorder?
The exact cause of Social Anxiety Disorder is not fully understood. However, several factors may contribute, such as:
- Genetics.
- Stressful or traumatic experiences.
- Children raised by overly strict or controlling parents may be more likely to develop Social Anxiety Disorder.
How is it diagnosed?
A doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional steps may be taken as needed, such as:
- Using the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association.
How is Social Anxiety Disorder treated?
Treatment varies depending on the individual and may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) sessions.
- Certain medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.
How can Social Anxiety Disorder be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent Social Anxiety Disorder entirely, but many of its symptoms can be reduced through treatment.
What are the complications of Social Anxiety Disorder?
- Depression.
- Poor performance at school or work.
- Substance abuse as a way to cope with anxiety.
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia).
- Digestive or bowel problems.
- Chronic pain or headaches.
- Social isolation.
- Suicidal thoughts in severe cases.
When should you see a doctor?
It is recommended to see a doctor if you notice that you fear and avoid ordinary social situations because they cause embarrassment, anxiety, or panic.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the difference between Social Anxiety Disorder and Agoraphobia?
While both Social Anxiety Disorder and Agoraphobia involve anxiety in public places, they are two distinct conditions.
Social Anxiety Disorder is an anxiety disorder where the individual experiences intense and persistent fear of being judged, watched, or humiliated by others in social situations.
On the other hand, a person with Agoraphobia experiences feelings of panic or helplessness when in certain places or situations,not necessarily because of other people.
