Association of Social Anxiety Disorder and Self-Esteem among Young Adults – A Single Centre Study

Abstract

Social anxiety disorder is a serious mental health issue in India which often goes undiagnosed and undertreated [3]. In addition, studies have shown social anxiety disorder to have an inverse relation to self-esteem [13]. The aim of the study is to evaluate the association between social anxiety disorder and low self-esteem among young adults. The research is a cross sectional descriptive study among the medical undergraduates. Among the participants suffering from social anxiety disorder many of the individuals had social phobia while a few had traditional social anxiety as well. As a result the prevalence of low self-esteem in the study group has a direct association with social anxiety disorder and shows statistically significant data. Thus, an effective way to deal with this condition would be to spread awareness and establish an active student support system and guidance team on campus.