Topic Overview
What is social anxiety disorder?
People with
social anxiety disorder (or social phobia) are extremely anxious about what
they will say or do in front of other people. This includes public speaking and
day-to-day social situations. But it is more than just being shy or nervous
before public speaking. The fear can begin weeks or months before an event. It
can cause a fast heartbeat and make it hard to focus.
Some people
fear only one or a few types of social situations. For other people, many
situations cause stress. This problem affects your daily life. You may be so
stressed or afraid that you avoid public situations, including missing work and
school.
What causes social anxiety disorder?
Doctors don't
know what causes social anxiety disorder. They think it may run in families. But they are not sure if it's because of
or a response to a traumatic situation.
What are the symptoms?
Social anxiety disorder
causes both emotional and physical symptoms:
- It can make you nervous, sad, or easily upset
before or during a social event. You may worry a lot or be afraid that
something bad will happen.
- The anxiety can cause you to blush,
sweat, and feel shaky. Your heart may beat faster than normal, and you may have
a hard time focusing.
How is social anxiety disorder diagnosed?
To
diagnose social anxiety disorder, your doctor will examine you and ask about
your symptoms. He or she may ask other questions to see how you are doing
emotionally. This is called a mental health assessment.
Your
doctor may also do blood or urine tests to rule out other conditions, such as
that can cause similar symptoms.
How is it treated?
Treatment of social anxiety
disorder includes counseling and sometimes medicine, such as antidepressants.
Whether you need medicine depends on how much the problem affects your daily
life. If you already feel anxious around other people, it may be hard to ask
for help. But treatment for social anxiety disorder works for many people.
Some people with social anxiety disorder turn to alcohol or drugs
to help them relax. This can lead to
. They may also have
. It is important to treat these issues
too.
Frequently Asked Questions
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