Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder is also called Social Phobia. This affects people by making them excessively afraid, self conscious and anxious in normal social settings. The symptoms of this disorder present themselves in the form of a constant, intense and persistent fear that they are being watched when appearing in social situations. They are afraid that their actions are being somehow judged by others, and that they will only do something to embarrass themselves. Where most people are excited and flattered to be included at parties, or other social gatherings, people with this disorder simply dread the event. They worry from the time they are invited up until the actual date. This worry and fear can consume them to the extent of everything else. People with Social Anxiety Disorder have a hard time making friends, or keeping them.
Many people with this disorder recognize rationally that their worries and fears about being with others in social settings are not normal. However, just knowing this does not mean that they are able to move past the fears. The symptoms may be controlled long enough to be with other people, but this is usually after much long and intense worrying over the upcoming gathering. They also do not enjoy themselves while they are there, and go home worrying and wondering just what everyone was saying about them.
Social Anxiety Disorder can be experienced in more than just one way. Some people cannot handle being in a setting where they have to talk with others, or eat and drink with them. Others are so severely afraid that they cannot be around anyone outside of family members without being anxious.
People who suffer from this disorder very often exhibit symptoms when placed in a social setting. They may start to sweat, blush, tremble, and have difficulty speaking. They may also feel sick at their stomachs. These symptoms only make matters worse as it convinces the sufferer that everyone in the room is staring at them.
This disorder does not play favorites as it affects men and women equally. There are approximately 15 million American adults diagnosed with this affliction. It usually starts during childhood to early adolescence and is thought to be genetically involved. People who develop Social Anxiety Disorder may often have other anxiety disorders to go along with it, including depression.
There is treatment available for people who suffer from this disorder in the form of cognitive-behavioral therapy combined with medication. However, you must make the decision that you want to recover and lead a normal, happy, and sociable life, filled with friends. Once you decide that, you are on your way to a full recovery.