Social anxiety disorder (SAD) symptoms differ from person to person. Some may have only a few, while others have many.
People with SAD may stay away from social settings or public places because they fear:
- Being teased or criticized
- Being the center of attention
- Meeting or talking to new people
- Meeting or talking to people who may be in charge
- Eating, writing, or speaking in public
- Using public toilets
In social events people may have:
- Blushing
- Excessive sweating
- Shaking
- Nausea or vomiting
- Problems making eye contact
These symptoms can make fears worse. This can lead to panic attacks. Over time, the person may stay away from areas where a panic attack happened.
References
Social anxiety disorder. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115906/Social-anxiety-disorder . Updated September 21, 2018. Accessed February 27, 2019.
Social anxiety disorder: More than just shyness. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/social-anxiety-disorder-more-than-just-shyness/index.shtml. Accessed February 27, 2019.
Social phobia. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/anxiety-and-stressor-related-disorders/social-phobia. Updated July 2018. Accessed February 27, 2019.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrian Preda, MD
- Review Date: 12/2018
- Update Date: 02/27/2019