- Almost one in three people claiming Personal Independence Payment for anxiety disorders in England and Wales are teenagers or young adults aged 16 to 24.
- Analysis shows that over half of recent Pip claimants listing anxiety as their primary condition are under 35, compared to just 2 per cent aged 65 or over.
- Health experts explain that social anxiety disorder causes an intense fear of social judgment that severely impacts daily functioning, work, and relationships.
- Physical symptoms of the condition include a racing heart, panic attacks, stomach issues, and disrupted sleep, which often cause individuals to avoid social contact.
- Recommended treatments for social anxiety disorder include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, graded exposure techniques, mindfulness, and SSRI medications.
IN FULL
What is social phobia? Experts explain as Pip claims for anxiety rise
