Social Anxiety is the most common anxiety disorder and the third largest mental health care problem in the world. The lifetime prevalence rate is 7–13%
Social anxiety causes chronic anxiety and fear over social situations. It prevents people from leading the life they want, it stops them from taking the job they are good at doing, and it prevents them from having friends and relationships even though they want them. Social anxiety may destroys lives.
Patients with SAD experiencing significant distress and anxiety in situations that involve interaction with other people, like being the center of attention, being observed while doing something, having to say something in a formal situation, meeting people in authority , entering a room in which people are already seated ,making phone call in front of others , eating in public, etc.
During and before these situation, the patient feels insecure, anxious, can be embarrassed easily and may suffer from blushing, sweating, shaking, palpitation, upset stomach, nausea, shaky voice, muscle tension, diarrhea abdominal pain and cold hands. Patients usually try to avoid situations that may trigger such fear and anxiety
SAD can go unrecognized for many years, some patients think that it is a personality characteristic that cannot be changed so they don’t seek help
What distinguishes someone who simply is ‘shy’ from someone who would be considered to have a disorder?
When there is a significant distress or adverse impact on social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning, the diagnosis of SAD should be considered
The two types of treatment for social anxiety disorder are medications and psychotherapy. These two approaches may be used in combination.
