Symptoms of Social
Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)
The symptoms of
Social Anxiety Disorder (now known as Social Phobia) can feel disabling
to someone who is suffering from this disorder.
The fear of being
around others is so profound that one will often avoid strangers,
intimate conversations with others, and public situations in order not
to feel extreme anxiety associated with Social Phobia.
What
are the symptoms?
Source:
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th Ed) DSM-IV-TR
- Constant fear of
one or many social/performance situations where a person may feel
judged, embarrassed, or criticized by unfamiliar people. This person is
afraid that he or she will do or say something humiliating that will
cause embarrassment to the self.
- Exposing oneself
to the feared situations causes extreme anxiety, nervousness, and
feelings that one may have a Panic Attack.
- The person
understands that this fear is irrational, but he/she has difficulty
controlling this fear.
- One will try to
avoid social situations such as parties, family functions, small group
functions, grocery shopping, and any other social gathering.
And when he or she cannot “get out” of the social
function, he/she will feel extreme anxiety and distress during the get
together.
- The extreme
anxiety, fear, and distress one feels when exposed to social situations
interferes with daily functioning such as his or her normal routine,
occupational functioning, and relationships.
Take the Social
Anxiety Disorder Test to help
you determine whether or not you are struggling with symptoms of Social
Anxiety.
Overall, the
symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder can be treated. Find a trusted
therapist, doctor, or clergy member to discuss your issues.
Do not let yourself
suffer any longer. There is help out there. The hardest part is making
the choice to take action. So, take action and you will get better!
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