Highlights & Basics
- Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an excessive fear of social and performance situations where the individual is afraid of being negatively evaluated or rejected by others.
- One of the most common and impairing mental disorders with a high risk for comorbid anxiety, depressive, and substance-use disorders; it may be associated with severe impairments in daily functioning, including reduced quality of life, difficulty forming relationships, and impaired school and work performance.
- Assessment is based on self-reporting, clinical interview, and behavioral observation.
- Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and cognitive behavioral therapy are considered the first-line treatments.
- Long-term clinical management and monitoring are typically required, as patients are prone to relapse following discontinuation of acute treatment.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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