Social Anxiety Symptoms in Adults

Anxiety
March 21, 2025

While social anxiety disorder typically starts and is seen in adolescents, there are many millions of adults who struggle with the condition as well. 

When social anxiety persists into adulthood, it can affect an individual's ability to form healthy, lasting relationships, and may negatively impact their professional life as well. While the symptoms of social anxiety disorder are similar regardless of age, there are subtle differences in the way the condition manifests in adults as opposed to adolescents or children. 

If you or a loved one is an adult who displays any of the following symptoms, it may be indicative of social anxiety disorder:

 Common Symptoms in Adults

  • Difficulties in performing at work or maintaining a career
  • Difficulty establishing or maintaining romantic relationships
  • Lack of close long-term friendships
  • Fear of being criticized or of looking foolish
  • Intense fear of interacting with strangers
  • Avoiding situations where you might be the center of attention
  • Physical symptoms such as lightheadedness, shortness of breath, or sweating
  • Avoiding common social situations, such as work functions or parties

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Anxiety

What can I do to reduce my anxiety?

To reduce your anxiety, you can practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness practices. Additionally, regular exercise has been found to be beneficial in managing stress and improving mental health.

What can happen if I don't seek help for my anxiety?

Ignoring anxiety can exacerbate symptoms and make it more challenging to manage over time. This can result in a negative impact on your personal, professional, and social life, leading to feelings of isolation and even depression.

Are there specific therapy services for anxiety and depression covered by Medicaid?

Yes, Medicaid provides insurance coverage for therapy services specifically designed to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Access to licensed therapists who specialize in these areas is available within the Medicaid network.

What other activities are beneficial for reducing anxiety symptoms?

Other activities which have been found helpful in reducing both immediate feelings of anxiousness and long-term anxieties associated with chronic disorders include yoga, journaling, nature walks, art therapy, volunteering, and other low-stress activities. Additionally, developing a healthy lifestyle incorporating adequate sleep, physical activity, and nutritious meals can help reduce overall stress levels.

How do I know if my therapist is a good fit for me?

It's important that you feel comfortable discussing personal matters with your therapist in order to open up and get more out of therapy sessions; therefore finding someone who meets certain criteria like experience level, expertise areas, and personality is key when selecting a therapist who can give meaningful feedback about how best handle issues related to anxiety or other mental health concerns.

How long does anxiety counseling typically take?

The duration of anxiety counseling varies for each individual, depending on the severity of their anxiety and their progress in therapy. Our therapists will regularly assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.