Social Anxiety / Social Phobia
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Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder
What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social Anxiety Disorder (also called Social Phobia) is more than being shy. It is a common anxiety disorder that causes an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, rejected, or negatively evaluated in social or performance situations. This fear can interfere with work, school, relationships, and everyday activities. The good news is that Social Anxiety Disorder is highly treatable.
DSM-5 Criteria
Healthcare providers diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder when a person experiences persistent fear or anxiety in one or more social situations where they may be observed by others. The fear lasts six months or longer, is out of proportion to the actual situation, leads to avoidance or significant distress, and interferes with daily life.
Common Signs & Symptoms
· Fear of being judged or embarrassed
· Avoiding conversations, meetings, or social gatherings
· Fear of public speaking or performing in front of others
· Difficulty making eye contact
· Blushing, sweating, shaking, or trembling
· Rapid heartbeat or upset stomach in social situations
· Excessive self-consciousness
· Worrying for days or weeks before social events
· Replaying conversations afterward and criticizing yourself
How Social Anxiety Disorder May Present Differently
Children & Teens
· Crying, freezing, or refusing to speak in social settings
· School avoidance or fear of answering questions
· Difficulty making friends
· Frequent stomachaches before school
Women
· More likely to seek treatment
· May experience social anxiety along with depression or generalized anxiety
· Often report both emotional and physical symptoms
Men
· May avoid leadership roles, dating, or networking
· May appear quiet, withdrawn, or irritable
· May cope with alcohol or avoid social situations altogether
Common Medication Classifications
Medication is selected based on your symptoms, health history, and treatment goals.
· Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
· Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
· Beta-blockers for certain performance-related situations
· Other medications when clinically appropriate
Common Therapies & Why They Help
· Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change unhelpful thoughts while building confidence.
· Exposure Therapy: Gradually practices feared social situations to reduce anxiety.
· Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT): Teaches acceptance of anxious thoughts while focusing on personal values.
· Social Skills Training: Builds communication, confidence, and assertiveness.
· Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Helps reduce self-criticism and stay present.
Many people experience the best results by combining therapy, healthy lifestyle habits, and medication when appropriate.
Healthy Coping Tips
· Practice one small social interaction each day.
· Challenge negative self-talk.
· Focus on the conversation rather than how you think you appear.
· Exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
· Limit caffeine if it worsens anxiety.
· Celebrate progress, even small victories.
When Should You Seek Help?
If fear of social situations is causing you to avoid work, school, relationships, or activities you enjoy, it is time to seek professional help. Early treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or are in a mental health crisis, call 911 or 988 immediately.
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This handout is for educational general awareness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.
