Social or interpersonal anxiety has to do with worry, irrational fear and panic during intimate situations, social gatherings or work situations that seem like they could be embarrassing. Interpersonal Anxiety Disorder is also referred to as Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), and falls under the umbrella category of anxiety disorders. These include panic disorder, phobias, eating disorders and other conditions. It's a long-term health concern that causes an irrational anxiety, or fear of activities or situations in which you may be observed and/or judged, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Warning
Social anxiety disorder symptoms can fluctuate over time. There may be flare-ups around difficult periods or stressful situations. Doctors advise that the avoidance of the anxiety-producing situation may make you feel better in the short term. However, these symptoms likely continue without treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Considerations
Mental health professionals assess the severity of the anxiety by asking: How much does the anxiety interfere with your regular life? "It's important to address anxiety because, unchecked, it can lead to significant health and mental health difficulties," says Dr. Lynn Friedman. She adds that there is a concern "when anxiety begins to persistently interfere with our capacity to function effectively in our everyday lives." If fear and anxiety doesn't really bother you and seems within an acceptable range, you probably don't need treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Associated Issues
Interpersonal anxiety can begin at any age, although most people with the disorder first notice problems in childhood or adolescence. It tends to run in families, as do other anxiety disorders. According to the Mayo Clinic, it's one of the most common mental health issues and is also very treatable. This type of anxiety is associated with a number of other serious issues, including low self-esteem, poor body image, depression and substance abuse problems, according to Anxietybc.com.
Features
According to the Mayo Clinic, it may be difficult for people with interpersonal anxiety to interact intimately, interact with strangers, make eye contact, initiate conversations or attend gatherings with a large number of people. If you have social anxiety, you often realize that anxiety or fear is out of proportion to the situation. Yet you're so worried about developing symptoms that you may avoid situations that may trigger them.
Considerations
Interpersonal anxiety usually causes intense fear of being in situations in which you don't know people and often causes fear that others will notice your anxiety. The Mayo Clinic also warns that many physical symptoms are usually involved. These include blushing, sweating, shaking, heart palpitations, nausea, stomach upset, difficulty talking, confusion and muscle tension. With treatment, most people can combat the low self-esteem that often accompanies interpersonal anxiety and develop the social skills to interact with others comfortably.
