Social PhobiaSocial phobia, also known as social anxiety, is an irrational fear of social settings. There may be particular situations that set off the feelings of panic, or it may be a generalized social anxiety that accompanies most social events. Individuals who suffer from social anxiety may fear public speaking, meeting new people and job interviews. They may avoid parties, dates and other social events. In many cases, the fear stems from an anxiety over embarrassment or negative judgment from others. Even when an individual knows that the fear is irrational, it is too intense to overcome without outside help. Social anxiety can be a crippling disorder that provokes many sufferers to avoid social situations altogether. This disorder can get in the way of daily activities and lead to depression and substance abuse. While doctors are not sure what causes social anxiety disorders, there is some indication that it runs in families. Social anxiety may also be a learned behavior that is the result of humiliation, bullying or abuse as a child. Researchers are also exploring the possibility that social phobia may be the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. Symptoms of Social PhobiaThere are many different psychological and physical symptoms of social anxiety disorder that include:• Intense worry long before a social event • Panic attacks prior to or during an event • An extreme, irrational fear of being watched and judged by others • Fear of embarrassing oneself • Avoidance of social situations altogether • Pounding heart or rapid breathing • Feeling flush or dizzy • Trembling, sweating and dry mouth • Muscle tension and twitching These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and affect one's quality of life to the point that professional help is sought to overcome the fear. Treatment of Social PhobiaThe good news is that social anxiety can be effectively treated through a variety of therapies. Psychotherapy is usually the first approach, and generally begins with cognitive-behavioral therapy to address the thoughts behind the fears and ways to overcome them.Cognitive-behavioral therapy may incorporate exposure therapy, which exposes the patient to real or imagined situations that provoke the fear and learning ways to face the fear down. It may also involve social training that teaches basic social skills through role play and rehearsal so an individual is more comfortable interacting in social settings. Social anxiety may feel like a crippling disorder that prevents an individual from enjoying life to the fullest. However, social anxiety does not have to be suffered in silence. EFT is a technique that has an 80 percent success rate for any type of anxiety. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) offers hope to people suffering this anxiety disorder. EFT has no known side effects; often works when nothing else will and with lasting results. Return From Social Phobia To Anxiety Disorders 
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