Symptoms may include sweating, trembling, and rapid heartbeat from "summary" of Social Anxiety Disorder by National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health (Great Britain)
Symptoms of social anxiety disorder can manifest in various ways, often causing distress and impairment in daily functioning. Individuals with this condition may experience physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and a rapid heartbeat. These physiological responses are the body's natural reaction to perceived threats or dangers, triggering the "fight or flight" response. Sweating is a common symptom of social anxiety disorder, as the body attempts to regulate its temperature in response to stress. This excessive sweating can be embarrassing and lead to further anxiety in social situations. Trembling or shaking may also occur as a result of heightened anxiety, affecting fine motor skills and coordination. These physical manifestations of anxiety can be noticeable to others, causing further distress to the individual. A rapid heartbeat is another common symptom of social anxiety disorder, as the body prepares to either confront or escape from a perceived threat. This increased heart rate can be alarming for the individual and may exacerbate feelings of anxiety and fear. These physical symptoms can create a cycle of anxiety, as the individual becomes more self-conscious and worried about how others perceive them. In addition to these physical symptoms, individuals with social anxiety disorder may also experience cognitive and emotional symptoms such as negative self-beliefs, fear of judgment or humiliation, and avoidance of social situations. These psychological symptoms can significantly impact the individual's quality of life and relationships.- Social anxiety disorder is a complex condition that can present with a variety of symptoms, both physical and psychological. It is important for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek help from a mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment.