You’re Not Shy or Stuck Up. You Have Social Anxiety Disorder.
Social anxiety is not shyness. Social anxiety is not a personality trait. Social Anxiety Disorder is not uncommon in adults with ADHD — but it is commonly misunderstood. Learn the myths and facts here.
A sad girl sits alone by the window while suffering from social anxiety disorder.
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What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Some people believe social anxiety disorder (SAD) is synonymous with shyness. Others, including some physicians, don't believe it exists at all. But for those living with SAD, it's very real.
If you have SAD, you constantly worry about being negatively judged by others. You might find it difficult to eat or talk in public, or to use public bathrooms. You might find it impossible to attend social events. As with other anxiety disorders, you might know your fear is irrational but feel powerless to stop it.
A boy with social anxiety disorder looks at the ground
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How Common Is Social Anxiety?
Studies show that 2 to 13 percent of the U.S. population experiences social anxiety, at some point in their lives, to the degree that it would be considered SAD. It is the most common type of anxiety disorder in teenagers. It is more common in women and often starts in childhood or early adolescence. Some evidence suggests that, like other anxiety disorders, it occurs more frequently in children and adults with ADHD.
A girl with social anxiety disorder looks out a window
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Is Social Anxiety a Personality Trait?
SAD and shyness are not the same. Shyness is considered a personality trait. People who are shy experience nervousness or anxiety when faced with a social or interpersonal situation but accept that being shy is part of who they are. Those with social anxiety might be shy or might be extroverts, but they view SAD as a negative and often are hard on themselves for feeling the way they do.
The word symptoms written in fog on a window. Do you know the symptoms of social anxiety disorder?
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ADHD and Social Anxiety: Confusing and Overlapping Symptoms
The following are all symptoms of SAD, though everyone might not experience all symptoms. Some people might exhibit symptoms in only one type of situation, while others might experience multiple symptoms in various social situations. In some instances, these symptoms can overlap with or mirror those of ADHD.
Self conscious in front of other people
Extreme fear that others will judge you
Can worry for days or weeks before an event
Avoidance of situations requiring social interaction and intensely uncomfortable if in a social situation
Keeps conversation with others to a minimum
Difficulty making or keeping friends
Panic attacks, including shaking, blushing, nausea or sweating, when in a social situation
Difficulty talking to others
A woman with social anxiety disorder talks to a friend at a restaurant.
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People With SAD Aren't All 'Wallflowers'
While some people with SAD might stay in the background, others are outgoing in situations that don’t require them to perform whatever action triggers problems. For example, if someone is anxious about eating in public, he might not have a problem talking in public. Symptoms of social anxiety disorder rise only when an individual's triggers are activated.
Silhouette of sad ADHD teenage girl looking out the window on a cold autumn day
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SAD Is Serious
SAD can interfere with your ability to make friends and participate in social activities. But it can also cause problems in relationships, cause you to miss school or work, or cause you to get lower grades because of your fear of answering questions or talking in class.
A girl with social anxiety disorder wrings her hands in her lap
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SAD Elevates the Risk of Depression
Teens with social anxiety often experience depression as well. Some research has found that if you have SAD, you are six times more likely to also have dysthymia or another mood disorder. You are also at a higher risk for substance abuse. Early treatment may reduce the risk of developing depression and other coexisting conditions.
(3.6.24)Real Deal Complementary Treatment. A man with social anxiety disorder visits his doctor
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Effective Treatment Exists!
Like other anxiety disorders, there is help if you have social phobia. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been found to help people understand triggers for anxiety and teaches techniques, such as thought logs, mindfulness and relaxation exercises, to help control anxious feelings. Some people use medications to help control the anxiety. This can be especially effective when first beginning CBT.
