Why is social phobia common

For example:. Research suggests that almost 11 per cent of the Australian population experiences social phobia during their lifetime, with just under 5 per cent experiencing social phobia in any month period.

More women than men appear to develop the disorder. Social phobia is treatable and seeking professional support is the first step to recovery. There are two main types of effective treatments for social phobia; psychological treatments will generally be the first line of treatment.

In some severe cases, medication can also be effective. For a full list of references for the statistics on this page, and any others across the website, please visit the references page and search through the relevant category. Sign up below for regular emails filled with information, advice and support for you or your loved ones. Social phobia What is social phobia?

Social phobia may occur in the lead up to or during in: performance situations such as having to give a speech or being watched while doing something at work situations involving social interaction such as having a meal with friends, or making small talk. What are the signs and symptoms of social phobia?

The physical symptoms that can be particularly distressing for people with social phobia include: excessive perspiration trembling blushing or stammering when trying to speak nausea or diarrhoea. Symptom checklist Have you felt very nervous or embarrassed when faced with social situations or events?

For example: meeting unfamiliar people being observed e. For example, have you: not gone to certain interactions or events found it hard to go about your daily life e. Learning how to control the physical symptoms of anxiety through relaxation techniques and breathing exercises.

Challenging negative, unhelpful thoughts that trigger and fuel social anxiety, replacing them with more balanced views. Facing the social situations you fear in a gradual, systematic way, rather than avoiding them.

Role-playing, social skills training, and other CBT techniques, often as part of a therapy group. Group therapy uses acting, videotaping and observing, mock interviews, and other exercises to work on situations that make you anxious in the real world.

Medication is considered most helpful when used in addition to therapy and self-help techniques that address the root cause of your social anxiety disorder. Beta blockers are used for relieving performance anxiety. Antidepressants may be helpful when social anxiety disorder is severe and debilitating. Benzodiazepines are fast-acting anti-anxiety medications.

However, they are sedating and addictive, so are typically prescribed only when other medications have not worked. Authors: Melinda Smith, M. Jefferson, J. Mayo-Wilson, E. Psychological and pharmacological interventions for social anxiety disorder in adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

The Lancet Psychiatry, 1 5 , — Leigh, E. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 21 3 , — Blanco, C. Predictors of persistence of social anxiety disorder: A national study. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 45 12 , — Heimberg, R. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for social anxiety disorder: Current status and future directions. Biological Psychiatry, 51 1 , — Ougrin, D. Efficacy of exposure versus cognitive therapy in anxiety disorders: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BMC Psychiatry, 11 1 , Powers, M. Craske, M. Lancet London, England , , — Otte, C. Cognitive behavioral therapy in anxiety disorders: Current state of the evidence. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 13 4 , — Tolin, D. Is cognitive—behavioral therapy more effective than other therapies? Clinical Psychology Review, 30 6 , — Aylett, E. Exercise in the treatment of clinical anxiety in general practice — a systematic review and meta-analysis. Kandola, A. Current Psychiatry Reports, 20 8 , Anxiety Disorders.

American Psychiatric Association. What is Social Anxiety Disorder? Social Anxiety Association. Social Phobia — Written for teens, this article provides an overview of social phobia, its causes, and tips for dealing with it. Anxiety BC. Social Anxiety Institute. Social Anxiety — Worksheets and other self-help resources. Centre for Clinical Interventions.

NAMI Helpline — Trained volunteers can provide information, referrals, and support for those suffering from anxiety disorders in the U. People with social phobia may rely on drugs and alcohol to cope with anxiety triggered by social interaction. Left untreated, social phobia can lead to other high-risk behaviors, including:. The outlook for social anxiety is good with treatment. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication can help many people cope with their anxiety and function in social situations.

Is anxiety genetic? Yes and no. Learn more about pantophobia, a condition that describes a fear of everything, including its symptoms, how it's diagnosed, and how it can be treated. Does worrying put a damper on your day? Try these techniques to free yourself.

Though autism and social anxiety have similarities, the two conditions are very different. Learn why. Check out our picks for the best anxiety products and gift ideas, from books to herbal supplements. People who have generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, worry uncontrollably about common situations. GAD is different from normal anxiousness. What are the benefits of running for anxiety? Well, there are many. Here's how going for a jog can clear your head.

Weighted blankets are a popular way to relieve anxiety and improve sleep. Learn more here. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Mental Health. Social Anxiety Disorder. Medically reviewed by Timothy J. Legg, Ph. Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder. What Causes Social Anxiety Disorder? Diagnosing Social Anxiety Disorder.