Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an excessive fear of social and performance situations where the individual is afraid of being embarrassed or negatively evaluated by others.

One of the most common and impairing mental disorders with a high risk for comorbid anxiety, depressive, and substance-use disorders; it may be associated with severe impairments in daily functioning, including reduced quality of life, difficulty forming relationships, and impaired school and work performance.

Assessment is based on self-reporting, clinical interview, and behavioral observation.

Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and cognitive behavioral therapy are considered the first-line treatments.

Long-term clinical management and monitoring are typically required, as patients are prone to relapse following discontinuation of acute treatment.

The condition involves an excessive fear of social or performance situations. The individual will often fear being embarrassed, or worry about being negatively evaluated by others. Anticipatory anxiety and situational avoidance are common, and the individual may endure social situations with a high level of discomfort. The scope of the anxiety may be focused on specific types of social situations or generalized to almost any social encounter.