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Social Anxiety Disorder: Persons
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When prevalence estimates were based on the examination of psychiatric clinic samples, social anxiety disorder was thought to be a relatively rare disorder. The opposite was instead true; social anxiety was common but many were afraid to seek psychiatric help, leading to an understatement of the problem.[9] Prevalence rates vary widely because of its vague diagnostic criteria and its overlapping symptoms with other disorders. There has been some debate on how the studies are conducted and whether the illness truly impairs the respondents as laid out in the official criteria. Psychologist Dr. Ray Crozier argues, "it is difficult to ascertain whether the person being interviewed adheres to the DSM-III-R criteria or whether they are merely exhibiting poor social skills or shyness."[12]
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Those with social anxiety disorder ... have high rates of alcoholism and other substance abuse, family difficulties, and problems and a lack of personal relationships. They also often have difficulty finding employment and keeping a job. Co-occurring disorders, including depression are also common.
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If your child shies away from strangers you may be wondering whether it is a personality characteristic, a temporary phase, or the sign of a more serious problem such as social anxiety disorder (SAD). There is one key distinction that can help you to know whether your child’s shyness is something that might require attention. If your child is afraid of adults that he doesn’t know – this is a typical reaction and can be chalked up to simply being shy. However, if your child is ... uncomfortable around children his own age, and responds by crying, throwing a tantrum, or freezing up – and these symptoms persist for 6 months or more – it may be worth discussing with a mental health professional.
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Avoidant personality disorder – Avoidant personality disorder is considered by many mental health professionals to be the most severe form of social anxiety. The disorder is characterized by a lifelong pattern of extreme shyness to the point of self-isolation. If you have avoidant personality disorder, loss and rejection may be so painful for you that you choose a solitary life and avoid connecting with others.
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A good assessment is essential for the initial diagnosis of an anxiety disorder, preferably using a standardized interview or questionnaire procedure alongside expert evaluation and the views of the affected person. There should be a medical examination in order to identify possible medical conditions that can cause the symptoms of anxiety. A family history of anxiety disorders is often suggestive of the possibility of an anxiety disorder.
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Social anxiety can be totally debilitating as worry and fear dominate a sufferers life. Being bullied around by another person is bad enough, but when the thoughts inside your own head restrict what you do and make you feel anxious it's time to take action.
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