Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder

by Michael Jubinville, MPH

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.... 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.

Last reviewed December 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated: 2/27/2019

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