Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
What is Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder (SAD), also known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense fear of being scrutinized and negatively evaluated by others in social or performance situations. Some people with SAD literally feel sick from fear in seemingly non-threatening situations, such as ordering food in a restaurant, signing their name in public, or making a phone call. Although they recognize that the fear is excessive and unreasonable, people with SAD feel powerless against their anxiety. They are terrified they will behave in a way that will embarrass or humiliate them. Their anxiety can interfere significantly with daily routines, occupational performance, or social life. It can make it difficult to complete school, interview for and obtain jobs, and create and maintain friendships and romantic partnerships.
Physical symptoms of SAD include the following:
blushing
sweating
trembling
nausea
rapid heartbeat
dizziness
headaches
SAD is often selective. Some people may have an intense fear of particular social interactions such as making a phone call or talking to a salesperson, or a performance circumstance such as giving a speech, but they may be perfectly comfortable in other similar settings. Others may become anxious during routine activities in which their performance might be observed, such as starting a conversation with a stranger or a person in authority, participating in meetings or classes, or dating and attending parties.
Social anxiety disorder usually begins in childhood or adolescence. Children with SAD are prone to clinging behavior, tantrums, and even mutism
Info provided from adaa.org
