Shyness or a Deeper Problem? Social Anxiety Disorder

Social Anxiety Disorder (also known as SAD or Social Phobia) is a mental illness affecting more than 15 million Americans today. This disorder usually manifests itself during early adolescence, and affects more women than men. Unfortunately, however, it is also currently one of the most misunderstood mental illnesses. An individual with Social Anxiety Disorder may experience intense self consciousness in social situations. They worry boundlessly that they will be rejected or judged negatively by others. They may also fear that their actions and behaviors will embarrass or humiliate them. You might consider SAD to be an extreme form of shyness. An individual suffering from Social Anxiety Disorder recognizes that their fears are irrational, but still can't seem to shake them. This disorder can negatively affect every area of a person's life, as Social Phobics will often go to extreme lengths avoid situations that trigger their anxieties. Some individuals suffering from Social Anxiety Disorder can become severely isolated, having little to no personal contacts, jobs, education, etc. This can lead to a pit of depression, loneliness, and despair.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF SOCIAL PHOBIA

Social Phobics often fear situations where they will be forced to interact with new people. These situations are either endured with severe anxiety, or avoided completely.

Individuals suffering from Social Phobia often fear and avoid situations in which they will be observed, or watched by someone while engaged in an activity. Often, they will feel too uncomfortable eating, drinking, or writing in the presence of other people.

Social Phobics are often intensely self conscious when it comes not only to their physical appearance, but also their actions, and behaviors around others. They may feel they are behaving in an awkward manner, or that they look nervous, or "crazy". They may avoid conversation, for fear that they will say the wrong thing, offend someone, or sound unintelligent.