Social Anxiety Disorder or Social Phobia

Social anxiety is not the same as shyness. People suffering from social anxiety disorder, or social phobia, expect that others will notice something peculiar about them, think poorly of them, that they will be rejected, or that they will experience some sort of humiliation or embarrassment in a social situation. This expectation of negative consequences in one or more social situations can lead to fear and anxiety about social interactions and/or performance. Subsequently, the feared social situations are endured with excessive anxiety that may also include symptoms of a panic attack, or the feared social situations may be avoided for as long as possible.

The anxiety and avoidance related to social anxiety disorder can have serious consequences for a person's life satisfaction. Some examples of the impact of social anxiety disorder include not taking specific classes at school or not apply for an interesting job due to the requirements involving public speaking. Others may not make important telephone calls, not attend important social events or parties, not speak in meetings, not go on dates, or not use a public bathroom for fear of scrutiny. This is not an exhaustive list of examples and may occur with any social interaction or performance situation.

You can get help for your specific experience of social anxiety disorder. Verdandi Anxiety Clinic & Consulting in the western suburbs of Chicago is experienced in the treatment of social anxiety disorder using cognitive behavioral therapy, including exposure therapy. These treatments provide a means to increased life satisfaction and reduced social anxiety symptoms by challenging the perception of negative expectations and practicing feared social situations and scenarios through real-world exposure. As appropriate, practicing and guidance in certain skills like public speaking and job interviews are available. Contact your local anxiety treatment specialist clinic in Hinsdale today by calling (630) 280-8900 or use the form below to find out more.

Additional Resources:

Anxiety and Depression Association of America - Social Anxiety Disorder