Also known as social phobia, social anxiety disorder is the fear of getting embarrassed and judged in a social setting. In most cases, people who suffer from this disorder experience physical symptoms and at times they totally avoid interacting with people. Though it is a very common phenomenon, most people mistake shyness with it and this is very misleading because someone who is shy by nature does not necessarily have to be suffering from a social anxiety disorder. Some of the factors which are known to trigger anxiety include; public speeches, having meals in public, dating, partying, mobile talks, raising questions among others.At times, the effect of the disorder might be too adverse causing individuals to suffer from what is called anticipatory anxiety disorder which occurs when someone dreads something or an event that has not taken place yet. As unrealistic and unreasonable as it sounds, it happens to a majority of people. There are several factors which determine if someone is susceptible to anxiety disorder and these include; genetics or family history, mode of upbringing that instills fear and avoiding situations that you think are beyond you. 

Some of the symptoms that define someone suffering from social anxiety disorder include; shaking, sweating, tension of the muscles, feelings of impending doom, blushing, dryness of the throat, an upset stomach and the desire to get out of a particular situation. In addition to this, it is imperative to note that these symptoms interfere with the day to day activities of the individual and might drive them to compulsive habits such as drinking and to some extent, it might lead to depression. However, the good news is that if you suffer from the same, you do not have to do it in silence because you can seek help.

One common method of treatment is systematic desensitization where patients are taught relaxation techniques they ought to use when they experience the symptoms stated. Exposure therapy is another mode and this seeks to expose the patient to situations that arouse panic so that they can learn how to face the fears. For people who are influenced by thought, then they can undergo cognitive behavioral therapy which is aimed towards changing the manner in which they perceive things. If none of these methods seem to work, then you can resort to medication which has to be prescribed by a doctor. However, this should be the last option. If you undergo these treatments, you will soon be able to overcome your fears and improve on your social interactions.

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