Social anxiety, correctly known as Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is the third most common mental health condition. 

People with social anxiety experience fear and anxiety in social situations. They feel shy, nervous and fear being judged by others. The fear can sometimes be so intense that they start avoiding social interaction and isolate themselves. Depending on the symptoms, it could be mild, moderate or severe. 

According to the National Mental Health Survey, 2016, Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) affects around 0.47% of Indian adults and among them 82% remaining untreated. Women experience higher rates of social anxiety than males. People are reluctant to seek help for this due to social stigma, highlighting the need for better mental health infrastructure and awareness.

What Causes Social Anxiety Disorder?

The exact cause of social anxiety disorder is not known. It could be a combination of genetic factors, imbalances in neurotransmitters, past experiences and personality type.

What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms may be physical, behavioral, psychological or a combination of them. 

  • Physical Symptoms: Blushing, sweating, trembling,palpitations and increased heart rate, stutter, avoiding eye contact, stiff body posture, gastric upset.
  • Emotional or Behavioural: Being overly self conscious in front of people, over analyzing performance after a social event, fear of judgement, mind may “go blank” while talking.

Diagnosis of Social Anxiety Disorder:

If you have been experiencing the above symptoms regularly for more than 6 months and it has significantly affected your day to day life, your Mental Health Professional might use a set of questionnaire and DSM-5 criteria to diagnose this disorder.

Treatment Options Available:

Social anxiety disorder is very much treatable with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and/or medication such as antidepressants. 

  • CBT: Over multiple sessions, the  psychologist helps to identify and change thinking and behavioral patterns that are harmful or unhelpful. Doing this gives a new perspective and confidence to deal with stress and anxiety.
  • Medications: Anti depressants like SSRIs, anti anxiety medications and blood pressure medications like beta-blockers help in relieving the symptoms. 
  • Peer Groups: Connecting with others who face similar challenges can reduce feelings of isolation.

Conclusion:

Social anxiety disorder responds very well to the treatment, though some people might have to take the medications for long term. Good support from friends and family, timely treatment and self-awareness, many people learn to manage their symptoms and overcome them. 

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