Social anxiety disorder is quite common. A recent epidemiological study found that 7.9% of a sample of the U.S. population had social anxiety disorder. Another study put the figure at 10.5%. Unlike most anxiety disorders, in which women predominate, social anxiety disorder is about equally prevalent in both sexes.

The rate of recognition of social anxiety disorder is, unfortunately, extremely low. One reason may be that many clinicians, as well as the general public, currently know very little about the condition —which makes it difficult to discern where shyness ends and this condition begins.

Also, the very symptoms of the condition (shame, embarrassment and avoidance of authority figures like doctors) may prevent many from seeking help. If you suspect that you, a friend or a family member might have social anxiety disorder, please take a few minutes to complete our simple, confidential screening test called the SPIN (Social Phobia Inventory). Identification is a critical first step in conquering this highly treatable disorder.