anxiety_disorders


How can I tell if it's social phobia?

The symptoms of sweaty palms, rapid heart beat or butterflies in your stomach that many people experience before giving a speech, going to a party or on a job interview, are not the same as the symptoms experienced by someone with social phobia. To determine if you are suffering from social phobia click Yes or No in response to the following questions:

Are you troubled by:
an intense and persistent fear of a social situation in which people might judge you? Yes No
fear that you will be humiliated by your actions? Yes No
fear that people will notice that you are blushing, sweating, trembling, or showing other signs of anxiety? Yes No
knowing that your fear is excessive or unreasonable? Yes No
Does the feared situation cause you to:
always feel anxiety? Yes No
experience a "panic attack," during which you suddenly are overcome by intense fear or discomfort, including any of these symptoms? Yes No
Pounding heart
Sweating
Trembling or shaking
Shortness of breath
Choking
Chest pain
Nausea or abdominal discomfort
"Jelly" legs
Dizziness
Feelings of unreality or being detached from yourself
Fear of losing control, going crazy
Fear of dying
Numbness or tingling sensations
Chills or hot flushes
Do you go to great lengths to avoid participating in the feared situation? Yes No
Does all this interfere with your daily life? Yes No

If you answered Yes to one or more of the above questions, you may have social phobia and should consider seeking professional help.

Social phobia is a treatable condition. To find out more about how The Ross Center can help you overcome social phobia and/or to schedule a consultation/diagnostic evaluation with Jerilyn Ross, the Center's director, or with another staff member, please call (202) 363-1010 or fill out the contact form.

Back to An Overview of Anxiety Disorders

Disclaimer: This site contains general reference information and is not intended
as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other healthcare professional.