Who is affected by social anxiety disorder?

Content provided by Healthwise

Who is affected by social anxiety disorder?

Social anxiety disorder usually emerges during childhood or early adolescence and rarely after age 25.¹ It is a common condition that affects around 13% of the general population, with about one-third of those having a single fear of public speaking.²

Around 70% of those who develop social anxiety disorder are women.² The condition may run in families, although it is unclear whether this is due to a genetic disorder or to learned behavior. More than half of those with social anxiety disorder will become disabled by intense fear of and anxiety over numerous social situations.

Depression commonly occurs with social anxiety disorder, which makes it more difficult to treat. Alcohol or drugs may be used to relieve symptoms of social anxiety disorder, possibly leading to substance abuse problems.

References

Print Email SHARE

Citations
Zal HM (2003). Social phobia: Diagnostic issues. Psychiatric Times, 20(5): 75–77.
Hales, RE, Yudofsky SC, eds. (2003). Social phobia. Textbook of Clinical Psychiatry, 4th ed., pp. 572–580. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Denele Ivins
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last Updated	August 27, 2007

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	August 27, 2007
Author:	Jeannette Curtis
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.