Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) can be described as an extreme and persistent fear of being scrutinized or judged by others in social situations. This fear can lead to feelings of embarrassment, humiliation, and self-consciousness. People who suffer from this condition may “feel helpless against their anxiety” (ADAA). These emotions often interfere with daily activities, such as school, work, and personal relationships. The person may begin to withdraw socially or avoid situations in which they are afraid. Millions of Americans endure this devastating condition every day of their lives. There are several causes, symptoms and treatments. Statistics show a significant increase in people being diagnosed with social anxiety disorder in the United States. As a 2012 article published by webmd.com points out, “social anxiety disorder is the most common anxiety disorder and the third most common mental disorder in the United States, after depression and alcohol dependence.” Specific data included in the same article states that “an estimated 19.2 million Americans suffer from social anxiety. The disorder most often emerges in adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur at any time, including early childhood.” Additionally, the article indicates that social anxiety disorder “…is more common in women than men.” According to a 2011 Mayo Clinic staff article it supports research studies that believe a possible cause is genetics. These studies explain that there are no definitive causes for social anxiety disorder, however, anxiety disorders “tend to run in families.” This evidence leads researchers to the conclusion that this disorder may be “inherited through genes.” Another belief is that this disorder may be related to an imbalance of a... middle of paper: how to overcome social anxieties. New York: Simon & Schuster, 1993. Print.Richards, Ph.D, Thomas A.. “What is Social Anxiety?”. Institute for Social Anxiety. Np, nd Web. November 8, 2013. Smith, Melinda, and Ellen Jaffe-Gill. “Social Anxiety Disorder and Social Phobia.” Social anxiety disorder and social phobia: symptoms, self-help and treatment. Np, nd Web. November 8, 2013. "Social Anxiety Disorder | American Anxiety and Depression Association, ADAA." Social anxiety disorder | American Anxiety and Depression Association, ADAA. Np, nd Web. November 6, 2013. “Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder).” NIMH RSS. Np, nd Web. November 6, 2013.Stein, Murray B.. “Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder) – Dana's Guide.” - Dana Foundation. Np, nd Web. November 9, 2013. "What is Social Anxiety Disorder? Symptoms, Treatments, and More." WebMD. WebMD and Web. November 8. 2013.