Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)

Intense fear and avoidance of social situations

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 20, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia)?

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by marked anxiety and avoidance of social or performance situations driven by fear of negative evaluation by others. The lifetime prevalence ranges from roughly 7 to 13 percent.

It typically begins in adolescence. Patients fear behaving in a way that will be embarrassing, humiliating, or rejected. The fear is disproportionate, persistent, and impairs functioning.

Two subtypes are recognized: generalized social anxiety and performance-only anxiety. Without treatment, risks include alcohol misuse, academic and occupational underachievement, and depression.

Symptoms

Blushing, sweating, and trembling in social settings

Voice tremor and mental blanking during speech

Avoidance of eye contact

Avoidance of eating or drinking in public

Fear of telephone conversations

Withdrawal from parties and gatherings

Risk Factors

Behaviorally inhibited or shy temperament

Overprotective or critical parenting

Peer bullying or social rejection

Family history with genetic predisposition

Negative social experiences such as humiliation

Cultural factors with high performance pressure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Social avoidance interferes with work or school
Coping with alcohol or substances
Depression or suicidal thoughts
Increasing loneliness and social isolation

Treatment Methods

Cognitive behavioral therapy (strongest evidence)

SSRI or SNRI therapy such as sertraline or venlafaxine

Beta-blockers such as propranolol for performance anxiety as needed

Social skills training and group therapy

Virtual-reality exposure therapy

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Social Phobia: Diagnosis and Treatment of Social Anxiety Disorder

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Social phobia, formally known as social anxiety disorder, is persistent fear of one or more social or performance situations in which the person is exposed to unfamiliar people or possible scrutiny by others. Patients fear behaving in a way that may be humiliating or embarrassing leading to anticipatory anxiety and avoidance significantly impairing occupational, academic and social functioning. Lifetime prevalence approaches 12% making it among most common anxiety disorders. Onset typically occurs in adolescence or early adulthood with chronic course if untreated. Evidence-based treatments including cognitive behavioral therapy with exposure components and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor pharmacotherapy provide substantial symptom reduction. Beta-blockers may help performance-specific subtype. Early identification and intervention prevent progression to depression and substance use disorders.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.