Social anxiety disorder is a condition which can be either temporary or permanent, or somewhere in between. It is a condition whereby the sufferer often feels extremely afraid in social situations, so that they can hardly even function. The only way to make sure you do or do not have social anxiety disorder is to see a doctor for a thorough examination. The best help for anxiety disorders is often self-help, though many people with anxiety disorders benefit from joining a self-help group and sharing their problems and achievements with others. Talking with trusted friends can also be helpful, though not a substitute for medical care.

The family is of great importance and help in the recovery of a person with an anxiety disorder. Ideally, the family should be supportive, without helping to perpetuate the person's symptoms. If the family tends to trivialize the disorder or demand improvement without treatment, the affected person will suffer. You may wish to enlist their help as educated allies in your fight against your anxiety disorder.

Stress management techniques and meditation may help you to calm yourself and enhance the effects of therapy, although there is as yet no scientific evidence to support the value of these "wellness" approaches to recovery from anxiety disorders. There is preliminary evidence that aerobic exercise may be of value, and it is known that caffeine, illicit drugs, and even some over-the-counter cold medications can aggravate the symptoms of an anxiety disorder. Check with your physician or pharmacist before taking any additional medicines.