If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.Being hurt or threatened at home? National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233.Help with alcohol or drug use: SAMHSA Helpline, 1-800-662-4357.
Overview
People may avoid school, work, or events.
CBT works well.
When to get medical care
Call 911Thoughts of harming yourself or others: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in danger.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonFear affecting daily life.
Causes
Causes include genetics and life experiences.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause fear of social situations or being judged. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Social anxietySee a doctor if it doesn't get better
Strong fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations, like talking to people, eating in public, or speaking up.
What you can do at home
- Practice small steps.
Medicines
CBT and SSRIs.
At the doctor
An evaluation helps.
Questions you may be asked
- Situations
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
- Screening
Prevention
Early help.
- Seek support
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.