Adults with social anxiety disorder (SAD) and their employers.
These survey results about work and social anxiety disorder are part of a larger survey conducted by the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA). The survey was conducted online between December 11 to December 17, 2007 by Harris Interactive, an online market research firm. Study participants included 287 people with SAD. Study participants were asked a variety of questions about the general impact of the disorder, impact on relationships (romantic, friendship, and professional) as well as their treatment history. Results of the study were weighted to reflect the same demographics as the U.S. population.
A number of questions about work relationships were asked.
In general, about two-thirds of respondents felt that their work had been negatively affected by SAD, and about one-third felt the impact was major. Some of the negative effects included being absent from work, quitting a job, problems with productivity, avoiding meetings, being fired, and refusing promotions. Nearly two-thirds had kept their disorder a secret at work and around half admitted to choosing a job based on being able to hide their symptoms.
On a positive note, over three-quarters of respondents indicated that the routine of their job helped them to cope with SAD.
In terms of treatment, nearly two-thirds of those receiving treatment felt that it had a positive impact on their work, and about one-third believed that it had a major positive impact.
Left untreated SAD can wreak havoc on your professional life. Obtaining suitable treatment such as medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy will make a difference, as well as finding a job that gives you a sense of accomplishment but also some security in having a routine.
Source:
Anxiety Disorders Association. The effects of social anxiety disorder on personal relationships: Survey results. Accessed September 14th, 2008.
