Think back on a time when you felt nervous or shy. It might have been your first day at a new school or job. Perhaps, a first date or having to give a presentation of some kind came to mind. In situations like this, feeling some apprehension is normal and inevitable. You might get butterflies in your stomach or find that your hands are shaking a little. None of this is fun, but none of it is alarming, either.

What would be alarming is if such fear and anxiousness became chronic and disrupted your daily life. This could mean you are struggling with Social Anxiety Disorder.

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social Anxiety Disorder is a common, diagnosable mental health condition. More than temporary worry, this disorder challenges your ability to function. While many folks chalk up to their “personality,” that often is not the case. What some call shyness can be a disorder that strikes fear in the hearts of people when they have to perform basic tasks like:

• Making a phone call

• Using a public bathroom

• Meeting new people

• Dating

• Talking in front of people

• Asking for help in a store or restaurant 

• Eating in front of someone

Such worries may be founded on a fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected. As a result, the person may choose extreme forms of avoidance to feel safe. That friend of yours who seems like an “introvert” or a “loner” may actually crave a social life. But anxiety has tossed a monkey wrench into this desire. Thus, it is vital that more people get familiar with the symptoms of this condition. 

Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder

As touched on above, a telltale sign of social anxiety is avoidance. Worrying that you might embarrass yourself causes a person to withdraw. They turn down invitations and slip into the background when they can’t evade social situations. A child with Social Anxiety Disorder will, of course, be more demonstrative about the dread they feel. This can manifest in temper tantrums or a refusal to speak.

Some with Social Anxiety Disorder may:

• Avoid eye contact 

• Fear that others can recognize how anxious they are

• Expect the worst 

• Feel frightened anticipation leading up to an event

• Analyze their performance for days or weeks after the event

In addition, physical symptoms can include:

• Shortness of breath

• Rapid heartbeat 

• Trembling and shaking

• Blushing

• Sweating

• Dizziness

• Unexplained muscle tension and aches 

• Stomach disturbances

• Feeling like your mind has gone blank

It is essential that you reach out for help if you chronically experience any of the above. Too often, people with social anxiety either don’t realize that it’s not just shyness, or they are too self-conscious to make an appointment to talk about it. The presence of such signs and symptoms is what a practitioner will use to diagnose Social Anxiety Disorder.

Social Anxiety Disorder is Treatable

Yes, it’s not easy to share what you are feeling — especially when a fear of being judged is so strong. Social Anxiety Disorder, by definition, can hamper your desire to get help. But, like all anxiety disorders, social anxiety is treatable. So, why not start with a confidential inquiry? Take one small step to learn more about your recovery. 

Learn more about Anxiety Therapy.