Social anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder is an intense, persistent fear of being watched and judged by others in social situations. It can interfere with work, school, and daily activities, making it difficult to develop or maintain relationships.
Overview
Social anxiety disorder is an intense, persistent fear of being watched and judged by others in social situations. It can interfere with work, school, and daily activities, making it difficult to develop or maintain relationships.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Brain chemistry imbalances
- •Inherited genetic traits
- •Negative childhood experiences
- •Overactive amygdala response
Risk factors
- •Family history of anxiety disorders
- •History of bullying or trauma
- •Shy or inhibited temperament
- •High-pressure social or work demands
How it progresses
3 stages- Stage 1 — EarlyMild or intermittent symptoms; easily mistaken for something minor.Often missed
- Stage 2 — ProgressiveSymptoms become more frequent or severe.
- Stage 3 — EstablishedDaily life affected; medical care strongly recommended.
How it's diagnosed
- •Psychological evaluation
- •DSM-5 diagnostic criteria review
- •Physical exam to rule out other conditions
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- •Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- •Anti-anxiety medications
- •Social skills training groups
- •Practicing relaxation techniques
- •Gradual exposure to social situations
- •Limiting caffeine and alcohol
- •Maintaining a regular exercise routine
Complications
- •Long-term damage if untreated
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of social anxiety disorder
Prevention
- •Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- •See a clinician for routine check-ups
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to social anxiety disorder
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Total social withdrawal or isolation
- Severe panic attacks
- Inability to perform basic daily tasks
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Social anxiety disorder cause headaches?
- ›Is Social anxiety disorder reversible?
- ›How quickly does Social anxiety disorder progress?
- ›Is Social anxiety disorder hereditary?
- ›Can Social anxiety disorder be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Social anxiety disorder include Brain chemistry imbalances, Inherited genetic traits, Negative childhood experiences, Overactive amygdala response.
Social anxiety disorder can be serious and may require prompt medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or worsening.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Social anxiety disorder typically benefits from medical evaluation and should not be ignored.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026