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Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder is a psychological condition that causes overwhelming fear of situations that require social interaction or performance in front of others, such as public speaking. The fear often triggers physical symptoms such as blushing, rapid heartbeat, and trouble concentrating, and it may interfere with activities of daily living.

A person may fear almost all social situations or just a few specific situations. Treatment includes professional counseling and sometimes antianxiety medicines or antidepressants.

Last Revised: July 11, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry

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