Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)
Social phobia involves the fear of social situations and can be quite debilitating. In many cases, these phobias can become so severe that people avoid events, places, and people who are likely to trigger an anxiety attack.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 7.1% of U.S. adults experience social anxiety disorder each year.
People with this phobia fear being watched or humiliated in front of others. Even ordinary, everyday tasks such as eating a meal can be anxiety-provoking. Social phobias often develop during puberty and can last throughout life unless they are treated.
The most common form of social phobia is a fear of public speaking. In some cases, social phobias can cause people to avoid social situations, including school and work, with a major impact on their well-being and ability to function.
