Social Anxiety Disorder

Going to a party, asking for directions, and carrying on a conversation are all normal activities of daily life. For some, though, they can be terrifying. While most people handle those situations without even thinking twice about them, people with social anxiety disorder may experience emotional and even physical symptoms just considering them.

Social anxiety is a normal emotion that every person experiences at some point in life. It allows us to think of others when we face a situation, and consider how they feel about us. Some of us may feel anxious before a big speech or a first date. For someone with a severe case of social anxiety disorder, they may feel that same way every day just leaving their home. Social anxiety disorder is characterized by severe anxiety in social situations, so for someone with social anxiety disorder, that first date might be avoided completely, where a normal person might just feel a little nervous.

Social anxiety disorder comes in a couple of different forms. Some people that suffer from social anxiety disorder may feel extremely anxious about any social situation. Others with social anxiety disorder only feel nervous in a specific social situation, such as large groups. Both forms of social anxiety disorder can disrupt daily life, as a matter of fact, that’s what distinguishes regular social anxiety from social anxiety disorder.

When someone suffers from social anxiety disorder, they feel intense, frequent anxiety when confronted with social situations. This anxiety may cause uncomfortable physical symptoms, and it may be overwhelming enough to cause them to avoid social situations, even if they were very excited about it. For example, someone with social anxiety disorder may be very excited about a concert that’s coming to town, but when confronted with the crowd, they change their mind.

The physical effects of social anxiety disorder may make the condition more pronounced. In social anxiety disorder, the victim fears the judgment of others, so when they exhibit visible signs of nervousness, they may become even more self conscious. Trembling, sweating, and blushing are some common visible signs of social anxiety. Racing heart, shortness of breath and feeling faint are some signs that aren’t visible to others. Someone with social anxiety disorder may feel self conscious about even symptoms others can’t see.

Social anxiety disorder is a medical condition that is treatable. It is rare for someone to overcome social anxiety disorder without the help of a therapist, medication, and behavioral therapy. Social anxiety is debilitating to some people, but you don’t have to give up your life for it. If you think you have social anxiety disorder, speak to your doctor. Treatment is available, and your life can be better for it.