“Do I have social anxiety disorder?”
Hello, I have experienced all the symptoms for social anxiety disorder, but want to receive a proper diagnosis. I experience sudden heartbeat acceleration, stomach pain, nauseous, sweaty palms, and dizziness when having to stand in front of many people to present, public speak, etc. I always have negative thoughts, always wondering if someone is judging me or gossiping about me. I'm very self-conscious. My stomach settles with dread every time I walk away from a conversation, worried about what my peer thought of me. I'm also always concerned on offending someone by accident, causing myself to be.. unlike myself most of the time.
15 Answers
It certainly sounds like you have done your research. In order to be properly diagnosed, it's best for you to seek a psychologist for a consultation
A proper evaluation is recommended to clarify diagnosis, as many, particularly anxiety disorders have overlapping symptoms. I recommend seeking out a psychological evaluation with a psychologist. We conduct these types of assessments at our office.
Sounds like it, Yes. You can be treated with EMDR therapy for the best outcome.
There are many other factors that need to be considered when a professional is diagnosing a patient. While a person can meet criteria for certain diagnoses, a patient's personal history, medical history, and environmental factors. It would be a great idea for you to see a psychologist to be evaluated and properly diagnosed so that you can get the appropriate treatment. If you do not have insurance, there are options available for self-pay services.
I recommend you be evaluated by a cognitive-behavior psychologist. Social anxiety is one of many possible diagnoses.
To get a definite diagnosis meeting with a psychologist and engage in some assessment may be the best closures be careful of self diagnosis and checking the internet
Certainly you meet criteria for the diagnosis of social anxiety disorder. I am also wondering if you might be describing one aspect of generalized anxiety disorder.
What options are you considering in terms of diagnosis and treatment?
What options are you considering in terms of diagnosis and treatment?
The DSM 5 criteria for social anxiety disorder include:
- Persistent, intense fear or anxiety about specific social situations because you believe you may be judged negatively, embarrassed or humiliated
- Avoidance of anxiety-producing social situations or enduring them with intense fear or anxiety
- Excessive anxiety that's out of proportion to the situation
- Anxiety or distress that interferes with your daily living
- Fear or anxiety that is not better explained by a medical condition, medication or substance abuse
It would be helpful to consult with a mental health professional so that they can help you explore these symptoms, diagnose accurately, and begin a treatment plan to help you manage these symptoms.
- Persistent, intense fear or anxiety about specific social situations because you believe you may be judged negatively, embarrassed or humiliated
- Avoidance of anxiety-producing social situations or enduring them with intense fear or anxiety
- Excessive anxiety that's out of proportion to the situation
- Anxiety or distress that interferes with your daily living
- Fear or anxiety that is not better explained by a medical condition, medication or substance abuse
It would be helpful to consult with a mental health professional so that they can help you explore these symptoms, diagnose accurately, and begin a treatment plan to help you manage these symptoms.
In order to receive a formal diagnosis of social anxiety disorder you would need to complete a full psychological assessment. Reach out to a local psychologist to schedule an evaluation!
Yes, this sounds like social anxiety disorder. The physical symptoms that you described are hallmark symptoms of anxiety, and the negative thoughts about what people thought of you or how you presented yourself are key thought patterns in social anxiety. A psychologist would be able to help you with these symptoms, and medication could also be helpful if you feel like your symptoms continue to be too overwhelming to cope with, even with the psychologists help.
Mr. Joe Raphael
Preventative Medicine Specialist | Public Health & General Preventive Medicine
Winchester, CA
Thank you for writing. I look forward to connecting. I get the impression you have done some exploration on how social anxiety impacts you. I sincerely appreciate how you captured the physiological and psychological impact of anxiety. I would be willing to assess and hear your story.
I am sorry that you are experiencing these difficulties. It certainly sounds like you may have an anxiety disorder. However, a proper diagnosis can only be made by a trained clinician who meets with you and takes a thorough history. At minimum, you could start with your primary care physician who would be able to rule out medical conditions that might contribute to your anxiety.
Hello,
So it does sound like you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and panic, however to be sure you’d want to follow up first with your physician to rule out any medical causes for these symptoms. Then, you may want to seek out cognitive-behavioral therapy from a licensed provider, as it is incredibly effective in managing the symptoms you are describing. You can also download the insight timer app, it’s free and has lots of great resources for relaxation. I hope this helps!
So it does sound like you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and panic, however to be sure you’d want to follow up first with your physician to rule out any medical causes for these symptoms. Then, you may want to seek out cognitive-behavioral therapy from a licensed provider, as it is incredibly effective in managing the symptoms you are describing. You can also download the insight timer app, it’s free and has lots of great resources for relaxation. I hope this helps!
My heart goes out to you and your experiences. A formal diagnosis would be obtained through official mental health services, such as individual therapy, a psychological evaluation, or a meeting with a psychiatrist. I wish you luck.
Yes you do have social and public speaking phobia. You would benefit from therapy and medication. Propranolol is a safe( as long as you have normal blood pressure) as needed medication that works well in social situations especially for public speaking
Dr Nicole
Dr Nicole
