Social anxiety is a disorder characterized by an intense, persistent fear and avoidance of social situations. This extreme fear of being judged or embarrassed may put life on hold. Those who suffer from this condition may avoid social situations at all costs or tolerate them with great discomfort.

During social situations, or even before them, patients may experience some or all of the following symptoms:

• A feeling of embarrassment or nervousness when beginning conversations
• Not enjoying social events or being part of a group because of feeling nervous
• Getting anxious when giving a report or talking to a supervisor
• Blushing, perspiring, trembling and/or a racing heart in certain social settings
• Feelings of severe shyness
• Feeling nervous when being the center of attention
• Feeling a desire to flee the situation

Social anxiety can affect every-day decisions. Sufferers ask themselves "What do I feel comfortable doing?" instead of "What do I want to do?" People with social anxiety are at higher risk for depression, alcoholism and even suicide. Also, long-term relationships and professional successes are often drastically limited.

One medication has been approved for social anxiety and several other investigational medications are being studied for use in this condition. Summit Research may employ an approved medication in comparison to investigational drugs in studying social anxiety.

Summit Research Network participates in research studies of investigational medication for social anxiety. If you are selected, all research-related care and study medications will be provided at no cost. If you would like more information, please call us at (206) 292-CARE (2273), or fill out the form below and we will contact you.