Health is Gold (178): Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder affects approximately 15 million American adults and is the second most commonly diagnosed anxiety disorder following specific phobia.

Loneliness has been declared a health epidemic, and spending time with each other is the obvious cure. Source: Getty Images

Social anxiety disorder can wreak havoc on the lives of those who suffer from it.

For example, individuals may decline a job opportunity that requires frequent interaction with new people.

Or avoid going out to eat with friends due to a fear that their hands will shake when eating or drinking.

Symptoms may be so extreme that they disrupt daily life and can interfere significantly with daily routines, occupational performance, or social life, making it difficult to complete school, interview and get a job, and have friendships and romantic relationships.

People with social anxiety disorder are also at an increased risk for developing major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorders. 

Despite the availability of effective treatments, fewer than 5% of people of with social anxiety disorder seek treatment in the year following initial onset.

And more than a third of people report symptoms for 10 or more years before seeking help.