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Anxiety Disorders

Social Anxiety Disorder

Also known as: Social Phobia

Three friends chatting and smiling together on a sunlit cafe patio.

Key takeaways

  • Social anxiety is an intense, lasting fear of being judged — and it is very treatable.
  • It is more than shyness and can lead to avoiding social or performance situations.
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management help most people feel calmer.
  • Seek help if fear of judgment limits work, school, or relationships.

What social anxiety feels like

Social anxiety disorder is an intense, lasting fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. It can make ordinary moments — speaking up, meeting new people, or eating in public — feel overwhelming, and many people start to avoid them. It is common and very treatable.

How psychiatric care helps

A psychiatric evaluation helps clarify what you are experiencing, and medication management can reduce the fear and physical symptoms. We can also coordinate therapy referrals, which are often helpful for building confidence over time.

Sources: NIMH — Social Anxiety Disorder, Mayo Clinic.

Signs & symptoms

  • Intense fear of being judged or watched
  • Avoiding social or performance situations
  • Blushing, sweating, or trembling
  • Worrying for days before an event

Causes & risk factors

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), social anxiety disorder is one of the most common anxiety disorders and often begins in the teen years.

Causes

  • A combination of genetic and environmental factors
  • Differences in the brain circuits that process fear
  • Negative or stressful social experiences

Risk factors

  • Family history of anxiety
  • A shy or inhibited temperament in childhood
  • Negative social experiences such as bullying

Possible complications

  • Avoiding school, work, or social opportunities
  • Low self-esteem and isolation
  • Depression or substance use

How it's diagnosed

  • Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
  • Validated screening tools
  • Medical work-up to rule out other causes

Treatment options

ServiceWhat it's for
Medication ManagementCareful prescribing, monitoring, and adjustment of psychiatric medications to maximize benefit and minimize side effects.
Psychiatric EvaluationA thorough first assessment to understand your history and symptoms and build an accurate diagnosis and plan.

Prevention

  • Early treatment of symptoms
  • Gradual, supported exposure to feared situations
  • Ongoing follow-up

When to seek help

If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life, a psychiatric evaluation can help. If you have thoughts of suicide, call or text988 now — free, 24/7. In an emergency, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

Is social anxiety the same as being shy?

No. Social anxiety is more intense and lasting, and it can interfere with daily life. Unlike everyday shyness, it responds well to treatment.

Can it be treated without therapy?

Yes. Psychiatric evaluation and medication management can help on their own, and we can coordinate therapy referrals when extra support is useful.

Related conditions

Sources

Medically reviewed by Irine Achuamang, MSN, PMHNP-BC. Last reviewed June 30, 2026.

This page is for general information and is not a substitute for professional care. In crisis? Call or text 988.

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