Do You Have This Problem?

Social anxiety disorder is a common, but underrecognized problem. To see if you could be having this problem, take this simple test:

Rate each item according to the following scale:
0=Not at all, 1=A little bit, 2=Somewhat, 3=Very much, 4=Extremely
1.___Fear of embarrassment causes me to avoid doing things or speaking to people.
2. ___I avoid activities in which I am the center of attention.
3____Being embarrassed or looking stupid is among my worst fears.
_____Total

A total score of 6 or higher suggests the need for further assessment. Questions are from the 17-item social phobia inventory (SPIN).
Source: New England Journal of Medicine, Sept 7, 2006 edition

Check out these resources: www.adaa.org & www.nimh.nih.gov

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