Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) is a pathological condition characterized by extreme fear that occurs with the condition or threat of involvement in social situations.
How to tell if you have social anxiety
Mental manifestations of social anxiety include all shades of fear, constant avoidance of communication and performance.
Physical manifestations of social anxiety: palpitations, trembling (or a feeling of shaking), sweating, nausea, diarrhea, feeling short of breath, dizziness, muscle tension.
Causes
Researchers don't know for sure what causes social anxiety disorder, but risk factors, such as a family history of social anxiety disorder or having had a traumatic social experience, may increase your chance of developing it.
How is social anxiety disorder treated
Social anxiety disorder responds well to treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy and, if necessary, medication.
