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Social phobia which is also known as social anxiety disorder consists of
experiencing overwhelming feelings of anxiety and self-consciousness in
everyday social situations. People with this phobia have a constant and
intense fear of being watched and judged by other people. This fear can
be so intense that it may interfere with work or school and other everyday
activities. Even though many people with social phobia realize that their
fears are irrational and unnecessary, they can't control the way they react
and feel. They may even worry for days or weeks in advance of a dreaded
situation.
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Social phobia
affects about 5.3 million adult Americans. |
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Women and men
are equally likely to develop social phobia. |
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The disorder is
prone to start in childhood or early adolescence. |
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There is some
evidence that genetic factors are involved. |
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Social phobia
often co-occurs with other anxiety disorders or depression. |
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Substance abuse
or dependence may develop in individuals who attempt to "self-medicate"
their social phobia by drinking or using drugs. |
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Many people with
this illness have a hard time making and keeping friends. |
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