The Hardcore Therapist 60.5- Social Anxiety and Generalized Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a natural response to stress that can be beneficial in helping us stay alert and prepared, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can lead to conditions like Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). While both involve excessive fear or worry that disrupts daily life, their focus differs. SAD centers on a fear of social situations due to concerns about being judged or humiliated, while GAD involves persistent worry about a wide range of everyday events or activities. SAD is triggered by specific social interactions, such as public speaking or meeting new people, often leading to avoidance behaviors and physical symptoms like blushing or trembling in those settings. In contrast, GAD is characterized by ongoing, generalized worry, with physical symptoms such as fatigue, restlessness, and muscle tension. Despite these differences, both disorders share similarities, including emotional distress, physical symptoms like sleep disturbances, and chronic impacts on quality of life.