Definition

Social anxiety disorder is the intense fear of social situations. People with social anxiety disorder:

• Avoid interactions with other people
• Are extremely afraid of being judged negatively by others
• Feel humiliated, embarrassed, and inadequate more easily than others

Social anxiety may be:

• Generalized to all social interactions
• Specific to certain social situations, such as public speaking

Social anxiety disorder is much more severe than shyness. It can interfere with work, school, or other situations, as well as cause physical symptoms.

Physical Reactions of Anxiety

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Causes

The exact cause is unknown. Possible causes include:

• Genetic factors
• Problems with the regulation of chemicals in the brain
• Past emotional trauma in social situations

Risk Factors

Factors that increase your chance for social anxiety disorder include:

• Age: adolescence and early adulthood
• Other psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, or drug abuse)

Symptoms

Symptoms during social interactions may include:

• Blushing
• Excessive sweating
• Trembling
• Dry throat and mouth
• Muscle twitches
• Intense anxiety
• Rapid heart beat
• Lightheadness (feeling like you are going to faint)

Symptoms may begin in any public situation such as:

• Being teased or criticized
• Being the center of attention
• Meeting new people
• Interacting with authority figures
• Interacting with members of the opposite sex
• Eating, writing, or speaking in public
• Using public toilets

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your fears and symptoms. A physical exam may be done. You may be referred to a mental health therapist. The therapist may do a psychiatric evaluation.

Treatment

Treatments include:

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing social anxiety disorder. But early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications, such as:

• Drug abuse
• Depression
• Difficulties at school, work, or in your personal life