Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a mental health condition characterized by an overwhelming fear of social situations and interactions. It’s estimated that 12.1% of U.S. adults suffer from this condition at some point in their lives, to one degree or another.
While it may seem like mere shyness to some, social anxiety disorder can be a profoundly disabling condition that significantly impacts a person’s daily life. Here are some of the ways this condition can be deeply limiting:
Fear of social situations
This is a fear that goes well beyond typical nervousness or merely being uncomfortable. It can lead to agoraphobic type reactions that cause someone to literally remain trapped in their own home. Their self-consciousness can lead them to second-guess themselves in every situation, essentially paralyzing them from taking action.
Avoidant behavior
Someone who struggles with this mental health condition may actively avoid anything that makes their symptoms worse. That can mean avoiding certain people and situations – including those in the workplace. They may find meetings, for example, practically impossible to handle. Being placed in the wrong situation or being forced to make quick decisions could even cause crippling panic attacks.
Problems concentrating
When someone’s mind is spinning a million miles an hour because of anxiety, they may have incredible difficulty concentrating. That could make it impossible for them to complete work tasks in a timely manner.
Social anxiety disorder is far from a minor inconvenience – it can be genuinely disabling.
If you have social anxiety disorder and your Social Security Disability claim has been unfairly denied, you do have options. Many claims are approved upon appeal. The right legal guidance can make all the difference.