Do i have social anxiety ?

See below: "social phobia is a persistent and irrational fear of situations that may involve scrutiny or judgment by others, such as parties and other social events." for a more complete discussion, see below: http://www.Ncbi.Nlm.Nih.Gov/pubmedhealth/pmh0001953/.

Consultation: Many people feel anxious in some social situations, and it is rather common to be anxoious about speaking in front of a large group. Social anxiety disorder is a more specific and pervasive anxiety about talking or interacting with others that interferes with functioning. See here for more: http://cpancf.Com/articles_files/socialanxietydisorderwhatis.Asp.

Social Anxiety: Not sure what your symptoms are, but if your anxiety is causing distress or interferes with work/social activities/daily functioning, then consult a therapist for tx.

Dread, Avoidance: Symptoms include physical (e.g., heart racing, sweating. blushing); intense awareness of physical symptoms; thoughts of embarrassing self, feeling ashamed of self (e.g., "I'm so stupid"); avoiding social situations, social interactions. Symptoms interfere with daily functioning, ability to form relationships, etc. Suggest expert help! Read the stories of two sufferers here: http://ow.ly/EXbBU

Various forms...: Anxiety can show itself in various forms and to a variety of degrees. Mild anxiety (as in the case of most shyness) is not necessarily a bad thing, especially if it is temporary and in response to exposure to strangers. Moderate to severe anxiety that is consistent and not in response to some specific identifiable trigger is more problematic. If this is you...consult with a psychologist.

Psychologist: A psychologist can help with treatment.

Exposure Therapy: See this page of the Anxiety Disorders Assn of BC which contains educational & self-help tools (incl. a video) for managing, even overcoming social anxiety: http://ow.ly/F3lXj Effective treatment involves putting yourself in feared social situations, going from ones you fear only a little to others you fear a lot. A cbt expert coach can be big help! Gr8 documentary: http://ow.ly/F3fzQ

Behavioral Options: See this page anxiety disorders assn of bc which contains educational & self-help tools (incl. A video) for managing, even overcoming anxiety in social situations : http://www.Anxietybc.Com/resources/social.Php effective treatment will involve putting yourself in feared social situations, going from ones you fear only a little 2 others you fear a lot. A cbt expert coach can be a big help!

Anxiety: Consider group therapy as it is very effective for social anxeity but do individual therapy first with the same therapist who will be your group leader.