Social Anxiety Disorder

Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, formerly known as social phobia, is characterized by an intense, irrational fear of situations in which one might be scrutinized by others, or might do something that is embarrassing or humiliating. Exposure to the feared situation almost always elicits anxiety. As a result, the person avoids the situation, or, if it cannot be avoided, endures it with intense anxiety. Manifestations include blushing, stuttering, sweating, palpitations, dry throat, and muscle tension.

Social anxiety disorder is one of the most common psychiatric disorders and the most common anxiety disorder. Th is disorder typically begins during the teenage years, and if left untreated, is likely to continue lifelong.