Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD, also called Social Phobia)

What is social anxiety disorder?

People with SAD have a strong and persistent fear of being judged by other people or humiliating themselves in social situations such as:

Tip: Click here to watch a presentation on how to recognize and understand anxiety disorders in college students.

Speaking or performing a task in front of others
Eating in front of others
Meeting new people
Attending parties or gatherings

People with SAD have severe anxiety (or even panic) whenever they find themselves in situations where they fear they will be judged negatively by others.

People with SAD typically go to great lengths to avoid these activities or situations (e.g., completely avoiding classes that involve public speaking).

SAD causes problems with school, work, and social relationships.

Want to learn more about social anxiety disorder?

Check out these resources:

Are you concerned that you may have SAD?

See our resource database for a list of books, websites, and local options for seeking professional evaluations and treatment.