Social Anxiety Disorder
Overview
Social Anxiety Disorder involves a persistent fear of being judged, negatively evaluated, or embarrassed in social or performance situations. This fear often leads to avoidance of social interactions or enduring them with significant distress. Symptoms can interfere with relationships, work, and daily functioning, but evidence-based psychotherapy is highly effective in reducing anxiety and improving confidence in social settings.
Common Symptoms
- Fear of being judged, criticized, or embarrassed
- Avoidance of social or performance situations
- Intense anxiety before or during social interactions
- Physical symptoms such as blushing, sweating, trembling, or rapid heart rate
- Difficulty speaking, making eye contact, or initiating conversations
- Overanalyzing social interactions after they occur
- Fear of appearing anxious or “saying the wrong thing”
How Psychotherapy Helps
Psychotherapy helps individuals understand the patterns that maintain social anxiety, reduce avoidance behaviors, and gradually build confidence in social situations. Treatment focuses on developing more balanced thinking, improving social engagement, and increasing comfort in situations that previously felt overwhelming.
Treatment Approaches Used
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Exposure-based interventions (gradual engagement in feared social situations)
- Cognitive restructuring to address fear of negative evaluation
- Social skills training when appropriate
- Skills for managing physiological symptoms of anxiety
When to Seek Help
If fear of social situations leads to avoidance, significant distress, or interferes with work, relationships, or daily functioning, a diagnostic evaluation may be beneficial.
Please note that we do not provide emergency mental health services. If you are experiencing an emergency, please seek care at the nearest emergency department or contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate support by calling or texting 988.
Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice.