What is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) is characterized by a persistent fear of social or performance situations, with worry about potential scrutiny or embarrassment. Individuals with social phobia typically feel extremely anxious about being the focus of attention, and often avoid social and performance situations.

When an individual with social phobia enters or thinks about entering a feared situation, anxiety increases and for some may result in symptoms of a panic attack. Examples of feared situations include persistent fear of public speaking, meeting new people, attending parties, going to school, or having social contact through a job.

Although most people have some anxiety about social and/or performance situations, these fears are more severe, persist and may limit participation in or enjoyment of every day activities for an individual with social phobia. Social anxiety symptoms may interfere with success or completion of school, making new friends or relationships, and employment. Nonetheless, many individuals suffer with social phobia for many years without a diagnosis or treatment. However, there are a number of effective treatments available. Options include medications such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines ("Valium-like" medications), and psychotherapy (counseling or "talk therapy"), especially cognitive-behavioral therapy.