No matter what words are used, social anxiety is a daily reality for thousands of people. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 12.1% of adults in the United States experience social anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. That percentage doesn’t even include the number of children and teens who also struggle.

The pandemic turned everything upside down. It changed how we interact with one another and made the future less predictable. With all of this, it’s no wonder anxiety at all ages is common. For adults, how we live and work was completely overhauled. For kids and teens, the last “normal” year of school is now a distant memory.

If anxiety is a persistent aspect of your life, it’s important to learn more and consider taking action.

Anxiety Is More Than Nerves

First, it is vital to understand that social anxiety is more than just nerves. Everyone feels nervous from time to time. Social anxiety is something more.

In an interview discussing the connection between social anxiety and the pandemic, Clinical psychologist Dawn Potter, PsyD, said, “People with social anxiety often feel like others are laughing or judging them, even if that’s not the case. If you have social anxiety disorder, you may worry that you’re going to trip over your words or that people will notice how nervous you’re feeling – or that you’re blushing or sweating, even if you aren’t.”

Symptoms Of Social Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety can take many forms, but according to the Mayo Clinic, DSM-5 criteria for social anxiety disorder include:

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  Persistent, intense fear or anxiety about specific social situations because you believe you may be judged negatively, embarrassed, or humiliated
• Avoidance of anxiety-producing social situations or enduring them with intense fear or anxiety
• Excessive anxiety that's out of proportion to the situation
• Anxiety or distress that interferes with your daily living
• Fear or anxiety that is not better explained by a medical condition, medication, or substance abuse

Self-Evaluation Of Social Anxiety

Although self-evaluation is no substitute for seeking professional help, online tests can be useful tools. The Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale is a respected resource. By answering just 24 questions, you can receive a score that may help you get a better understanding of yourself.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one experiences strong anxiety regularly, speaking to a therapist could be the right choice. Although it may sound intimidating, you can learn more about what to expect before getting started.

Don’t let the stigma against therapy prevent you from getting professional help. If you have any questions, please contact us today.

Headwaters Counseling offers affordable services to the Fort Wayne community, including general counseling, employee assistance, and substance abuse counseling.