In addition to feeling intense fear or discomfort in social situations, individuals with social anxiety disorder may experience a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may include:
Physical symptoms:
- Blushing
- Sweating excessively
- Trembling or shaking
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle tension
Emotional symptoms:
- Intense anxiety or fear before, during, or after social interactions
- Worrying excessively about being judged, humiliated, or embarrassed
- Feeling self-conscious or awkward around others
- Fear of being the center of attention
- Fear of speaking in public or participating in group activities
Behavioral symptoms:
- Avoiding social situations or events where one might be the focus of attention
- Difficulty making eye contact with others
- Speaking softly or hesitantly
- Clinging to familiar individuals in social situations
- Excessive self-criticism or negative self-talk
- Engaging in safety behaviors to reduce anxiety (e.g., avoiding eye contact, fidgeting)
Cognitive symptoms:
- Overanalyzing past social interactions and perceiving them as negative or embarrassing
- Catastrophizing and assuming the worst possible outcome in social situations
- Negative self-evaluations and low self-esteem related to social performance
- Difficulty concentrating or experiencing a "mental blank" in social situations
These symptoms can significantly impact a person's ability to function in social, academic, or professional settings, and may lead to a withdrawal from social activities or isolation. It's important to remember that social anxiety disorder is a treatable condition, and seeking help from a mental health professional can lead to effective strategies and interventions for managing and overcoming social anxiety.