General description
It is normal to feel nervous in some social situations. For
example, having an appointment or giving a presentation can cause that feeling
of having butterflies in your stomach. But in social anxiety disorder, also
called "social phobia," everyday interactions cause a lot of anxiety,
fear, insecurity and shame for fear of scrutiny or the opinion of others.
In social anxiety disorder, fear and anxiety cause an escape
that can alter life. Intense stress can affect daily routine, work, study or
other activities.
