Not many people can say they are never shy or intimidated by a new situation or with people they don’t know. At one time or another, most of us have experienced anxiety when in a new social situation. But for people who suffer from a social anxiety disorder, most social events are avoided because these events often induce anxiety attacks which can be highly unpredictable and distressing.

Before making a diagnosis, it should be established that there are no medical conditions or drug side effects that could be causing the anxiety attack symptoms. Once those things are ruled out, a positive diagnosis is made if a person experiences an excessive amount of anxiety, fear, or panic as soon as they are with other people. Even though they often realize their fear is unreasonable and out of proportion, they can’t help feeling anxious and go to great lengths to avoid interacting with other people, to the extent they miss school or work, and resist meeting new friends.

Usually, people with social anxiety disorder are afraid to be seen or heard by other people. They are afraid to speak in a meeting or in class, don’t like to participate in sports, or even to eat or drink in front of others. A person with this disorder is sometimes hesitant to use a public restroom if others are nearby and greatly fears making a mistake in front of people.

It’s normal to feel anxious if you are going to an event where you don’t know anyone. And most people find it a little stressful to start a conversation with strangers. But when a person is afraid to express any personal opinion, to talk on the phone, or even to be assertive enough to ask for directions, they should see a doctor.

Antidepressants and anxiety medication are often used successfully to treat social anxiety disorder. However, the most helpful form of treatment is cognitive-behavioral therapy. Patients are taught to identify their anxious thoughts and replace them with more realistic ones. As well, they are exposed to the situations that cause them fear, whether through role-playing or actually confronting the feared situation. By confronting their fears repeatedly, the circumstances no longer trigger fear.

Sometimes people with social anxiety disorders also need social skills training to help them know how to act and what to say. Once they know exactly what to do in a situation, they feel much more comfortable and no longer practice anxious behaviors, such as not making eye contact, standing too far away, and speaking too quietly.

Social anxiety disorder is slightly more common in women than in men and can occur at any age. Medication can be helpful, but once it’s stopped, the problems usually return. Cognitive therapy can help raise self-esteem and lessen the panic often associated with being around people. Thanks to modern treatment, anxiety doesn’t have to hinder anyone from living a full and satisfying social life.

The content above is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of content found on a website