Causes of Social Anxiety Disorder

It's difficult to say exactly what the causes of social anxiety disorder are, but it's likely a combination of a few reasons. The important thing is that it can be treated.

Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia is one of the anxiety disorders. A person fears social situations and becomes incredibly nervous and self-conscious.

They always feel they are being watched, judged or ridiculed. They generally feel awkward in situations like eating or drinking in public, using washrooms, talking on the telephone or going to parties.

Possible Causes of Social Anxiety

Social anxiety may be genetic. It could be inherited from either parent who may have an anxiety disorder themselves, though not necessarily social anxiety. Brain chemicals may also not function properly.

That doesn't make it anything dangerous. That just means that their brain reacts differently to stressful situations and thus caused them social anxiety.

Environmental issues also play a part in unwittingly "nurturing" social phobia. This means that they could have been raised by nervous parents or perhaps a traumatic event caused them to withdraw.

Perhaps they had embarrassing experiences that made others laugh and make fun of them. Even if most people can brush this off, some cannot. Psychologically, they have been affected.

Perhaps they have a physical disability like deafness, or some other physical problem. This can make a person feel very self-conscious and keep away from certain situations. Thus, social skills may never have been learned.

Luckily, Social Anxiety Responds Well To Treatment

Unfortunately, social anxiety cannot be prevented. However, the good thing is that it's treatable, with a high success rate. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication is effective. A person can start living a normal life.

Whatever the causes of social anxiety disorder are, the main thing to realize, whether you or someone you know who has it, is to remember that the prognosis is favorable.

There will no doubt be some work that you'll have to put in. You'll probably have to face many situations that cause you anxiety. Please remember that these are necessary steps for recovery. You WILL get better!