Social Anxiety Clinic
We conduct research designed to improve our understanding of the complex social and biological causes of Social Anxiety Disorder, which may lead to future treatments. Persons with Social Anxiety Disorder can join us in this mission by participating in our research studies.
What is Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)?
Social anxiety can be a normal part of life. It involves feeling tense, nervous or uncomfortable in situations with others, due to fear of what they may think of you. When social anxiety is very distressing or interferes with activities, however, it may be considered "Social Anxiety Disorder." People with Social Anxiety Disorder may find it difficult to make new friends, to participate in group activities, or to date, and they may find career opportunities limited by their anxiety.
Common Symptoms
People with symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder often...
- fear doing or saying something embarrassing in front of other people
- worry about making a mistake or being judged by others
- avoid speaking to others
- fear meeting new people
- blush, sweat, tremble, or feel nauseous when self-conscious
- avoid social situations and giving speeches
- may drink or use drugs to try to relieve their social fears
Subtypes of Social Anxiety Disorder
Two subtypes of the disorder have been described:
- A generalized subtype, in which a person fears most social or performance situations
- A performance-only subtype, in which fears are typically limited to public speaking or other “performance” activities.
