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Understanding your mental health

Social Anxiety / Panic

Social anxiety and panic are distinct experiences that can sometimes overlap. Social anxiety centers on fear of scrutiny or judgment, while panic attacks involve a sudden surge of intense fear and physical symptoms. Having a panic attack alone does not establish a diagnosis of panic disorder.

Recognizing the experience

Symptoms you may notice

Experiences vary from person to person. These symptoms can have different causes and are not a diagnostic checklist.

  • Strong fear of being judged, embarrassed, or negatively evaluated in social situations
  • Avoiding conversations, meetings, public speaking, or other situations because of fear
  • Sudden episodes of a racing heart, trembling, sweating, dizziness, or breathlessness
  • Ongoing worry about another panic attack or changing activities to avoid one

How daily life can be affected

Social fear or concern about panic can narrow your world. Work, friendships, appointments, travel, and ordinary errands may start to feel out of reach. An evaluation helps distinguish different causes and supports a plan to gradually rebuild confidence and participation.

Looking at the whole picture

What an evaluation considers

Assessment is a conversation about your history, your health, and what matters to you. Your provider may:

  1. Discuss the timing, triggers, and physical features of episodes, along with avoidance and effects on daily life.
  2. Clarify whether panic occurs unexpectedly, in feared social situations, or alongside another condition.
  3. Consider medical causes, medication effects, caffeine, substance use, and the need for in-person assessment of physical symptoms.

Support, shaped around you

Evidence-based psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral and appropriately guided exposure-based approaches, may be recommended through referral. Medication may also be considered based on your symptoms, preferences, and medical history. Treatment is collaborative and proceeds at a clinically appropriate pace.

Explore Depression & Anxiety Treatment

Know when to seek help

Warning signs that need attention

Call 911 for new or severe chest pain, serious breathing difficulty, fainting, or possible stroke symptoms. Do not assume a new physical symptom is a panic attack. Thoughts of suicide or feeling unable to remain safe also require immediate support.

Do not wait for a routine appointment in a crisis.
In the U.S., call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for immediate danger or a medical emergency. For suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Marenova Wellness is not an emergency or crisis service.

Further reading from a public health resource

National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders (opens in a new tab)

You may also want to explore

DepressionGeneralized Anxiety
For your understanding, not a diagnosis
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace an individualized psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, or professional treatment plan.