Social Anxiety Disorder
A condition involving marked fear or anxiety about social situations in which a person may be scrutinized or judged by others.
Overview
Social anxiety disorder involves persistent, marked fear or anxiety about one or more social situations in which a person may be observed or evaluated by others, such as public speaking, meeting new people, or eating in front of others.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include intense fear of embarrassment or negative judgment, physical symptoms such as blushing or sweating in social situations, and avoidance of social or performance situations. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic factors, temperament, and negative or embarrassing social experiences are each associated with increased risk.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, including exposure-based approaches and social skills training, has evidence supporting its use.
Medication
Certain antidepressant medications are FDA-approved for social anxiety disorder and may be recommended, especially for more severe or impairing symptoms. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Social Anxiety Disorder
Gradually practicing feared social situations, challenging unhelpful thoughts, and building a supportive social network can aid recovery.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
With treatment, many people experience significant reduction in social anxiety and improved participation in valued activities.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.