A person may be diagnosed with social phobia if they are experiencing persistent fear of or intense anxiety about social situations in which they believe they may be scrutinized or act in a way that’s embarrassing or humiliating. This typically lasts six months or longer.

The person may also be actively avoiding anxiety-producing social situations or enduring them with intense fear or anxiety; feeling excessive anxiety that’s out of proportion to the situation; feeling anxiety or distress that interferes with their daily living; and feeling fear or anxiety that is not better explained by a medical condition, medication, or substance abuse.