Social Phobia (or Social Anxiety Disorder)

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Social phobia, also called social anxiety disorder, is diagnosed when people become overwhelmingly anxious and very self-conscious in everyday social situations. People with social phobia have an intense fear of being watched and judged by others and of doing things that will embarrass them. They can worry for days or weeks before a dreaded situation. This fear may become so severe that it interferes with work, school, and other ordinary activities, and can make it hard to make and keep friends.

Physical symptoms that often accompany social phobia include blushing, sweating, trembling, nausea, and difficulty talking. When these symptoms occur, people with social phobia feel as though all eyes are focused on them.

Social phobia affects about 15 million American adults.

Additional Resources

Publications

Always Embarrassed: Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) - This is an easy-to-read booklet on Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) that explains what it is, when it starts, how long it lasts, and how to get help.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/social-phobia-social-anxiety-disorder.shtml...
Social Phobia - This web site contains links to information on social phobia, its signs and symptoms, treatment, and where to go for help. It also links to publications from the National Institute of Mental Health.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/socialphobiamenu.cfM
Social Anxiety and Social Phobia (Copyright © Helpguide.org) - This fact sheet describes different situations in which someone with social anxiety disorder would feel anxious, and explains the symptoms and treatment of the disorder.
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/social_anxiety_support_symptom_causes_treatment.htm...
Social Anxiety Disorder (Copyright © Madison Institute of Medicine) - This Web site provides a place where visitors can learn about the likelihood of being affected by Social Anxiety Disorder. Helpful treatment resources are also provided, as well as continuing education for clinicians.
http://socialanxiety.factsforhealth.org/
Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) (Copyright © ADAA) - This fact sheet describes Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and links to books and a self-test for SAD.
http://www.adaa.org/GettingHelp/AnxietyDisorders/SocialPhobia.asp
Social Phobia (Copyright © Nemours Foundation) - This fact sheet is written for teens but contains great advice about overcoming social phobia for people of all ages. It contains a breathing exercise for relaxation and tips for defeating negative self-talk.
http://kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/mental_health/social_phobia.html

Organizations

= Indicates Federal Resources