Social Phobia or Social Anxiety

social_anxiety_phobiaSocial phobia (also known as Social Anxiety) is a persistent fear of one or more social situations due to the underlying anxiety of being judged by others.

Common symptoms include a fear of public speaking, blushing, stuttering or stammering, a fear of being ‘on the spot’ and a general lack of confidence in social or work related situations (where there is a possibility of being scrutinised). Most social phobics are quite adept at concealing their lack of confidence, and may appear outwardly to be confident individuals.

Do you suffer from any of these symptoms:

  • Worry about being the centre of attention?
  • Worry about making a fool of yourself in front of others?
  • Feel shy and blush easily?
  • Have a fear of being judged or disliked by others?
  • Find it difficult to voice your opinion for fear of being challenged?
  • Do you think people perceive you as boring?
  • Are you nervous around authority figures e.g. courts/police/bosses
  • Do you suffer from palpitation, dizziness, nausea, loose bowels when in a social situation or meeting new people?
  • Do you worry about your sexual performance?
  • Do you have a fear of public speaking?
  • Do you worry about making presentations?
  • Do you have a fear of using public toilets, or using a toilet when other people are around (shy bladder/bashful bladder/shy pee)
  • Is it a struggle to eat or drink in front of others?
  • Do you avoid parties or social events?
  • When you avoid presentations is it having an impact on your career?
  • Are you hypersensitive to criticism?
  • Do you tend to hide all of the above from others e.g. appear confident when you don’t feel it?

All these are common symptom of social phobia. There are varying degrees severity.
Social phobia can, if severe, be extremely debilitating, it can affect ones family life, work, promotion, it can also affect long term relationships. Social phobia can interfere with a person’s routine, occupation, chances of promotion, family life, long term relationships and general social functioning.

Social Phobia often starts in childhood and can persist throughout ones life fluctuating over time. Unfortunately, it is not a commonly heard of disorder and many people who are long time sufferer are often not aware of their condition.