Individuals who suffer from social anxiety disorder have a fear of being in social situations where they believe they will be judged, embarrassed, abandoned, or rejected. Interacting with other people is terrifying to the person with social anxiety so much so that they choose to isolate themselves from loved ones and society.
If you or someone you know struggles with severe anxiety in social situations should be evaluated for social anxiety. Symptoms of social anxiety can be so extreme that they disrupt the individual’s life. Individuals who suffer from social anxiety often miss out on quality time with family members, friends or coworkers.
Individuals who suffer from social anxiety have difficulty with the following situations:
- Being introduced to new people
- Being in a situation where they are the center of attention (birthday parties, etc.)
- Meeting authority figures
- Most social encounters, especially with strangers
- Interpersonal relationships, whether friendships or romantic