Social Anxiety Disorder (social phobia) is the persistent, irrational and intense fear of the social interactions and activities we partake in on a daily basis. Many who suffer from this have the constant fear of rejection or general scrutiny from others around them. Those affected may try to avoid many if not all social interactions depending on the severity of the disorder.
Social anxiety is the most common mental disorder in the United States, it currently affects approximately 40 million adults over the age of 18 (18% of the total population).
Symptoms of this disorder include: sweating, palpitations, blushing, nausea and sometimes even panic attacks.
Certain medications may be used to reduce the amount of stress and anxiety experienced by those affected. These mainly include SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), this kind of medicine is often the first to be prescribed for social anxiety.
Those suffering from this disorder often avoid social areas of civilization causing them to live difficult lives.
- Avoiding public ways of transportation, such as trains, buses, passenger planes, or even taxi cabs
- Avoiding public restrooms
- In severe cases, one may not ever leave their own home for fear that they may be humiliated or not accepted by others
- Eating alone
- Avoiding the center of attention at ALL cost
As a current sufferer of this disorder, I had some insight into how it affects others on a daily basis. I understand how hard this can be on some people. I only hope they get someone to push them so that they improve rather than get worse over time.
Thanks for reading,
-Minrr