PSY 38 – Sozial phobia

Social phobia means that people have a great fear of social situations. They are particularly afraid of meeting strangers or having to perform in front of others.

What exactly is it about?
People with social phobia are afraid of embarrassing themselves or attracting negative attention. This fear is much stronger than normal nervousness. Around ten million people in Europe are affected. In Germany, social phobia is actually the most common form of anxiety disorder.

Typical situations that can trigger anxiety:
– Giving presentations
– Presentations at school
– Job interviews
– Business meetings
– Celebrations and parties
– Eating or drinking in public
– Using public toilets

Important to know
Social phobia is not the same as shyness or stage fright. Everyone is nervous before a performance or reserved with new people. We only speak of an anxiety disorder when:
– The person completely avoids such situations
– The fear is so strong that it causes panic
– The fear severely restricts normal life

Social phobia often begins during puberty, when adolescents are already insecure due to physical changes. Many of those affected also suffer from other anxiety disorders.

The chip is intended to help recognize the signs of such anxiety disorders and provide targeted support for therapy.