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Are People With Social Anxiety Disorder Happier Alone?

Boston Neurobehavioral Associates - Feb 15, 2026

Are People With Social Anxiety Disorder Happier Alone BNBA
No, people with social anxiety disorder (SAD) are not happier alone. In fact, research shows that people with SAD feel more positive and happier when they interact with others, even though they fear social situations. At the same time, they feel about the same level of negative emotions whether they are alone or with people. This means that although they may be afraid to socialize, they still gain positive feelings from being around others.

Are People With Social Anxiety Disorder Happier Alone?

Social anxiety disorder is a persistent, intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social situations. It feels like the person has to do some kind of performance to come across as normal, which is extremely exhausting. This is the reason people with SAD prefer to be alone.

Do People With Social Anxiety Actually Enjoy Being Alone or Just Tolerate It?

When you ask whether people with social anxiety enjoy solitude or simply tolerate it, the honest answer is: it depends on the person.

But there are some observations that experts have noticed: Some people with SAD genuinely enjoy alone time. They recharge in quiet environments and find comfort in solo hobbies. But if you watch really closely, you will note that they are not using solitude as a treat but as a shield to hide from the world.

People with social anxiety disorder don’t prefer solitude or loneliness because they enjoy it, but because the alternative (socializing, making friends, exploring new places) scares them to the point that it hurts their physical health.

Can People With Social Anxiety Have Friends and Relationships?

Yes, people with social anxiety disorder (SAD) can and do have friends and relationships, though it often comes with challenges.

People with social anxiety have smaller circles, and they, most of the time, don't have any deep emotional connections with anyone, even with their partner.

There's often a fear of saying the wrong thing, coming across as weird, or being disliked. That fear leads to avoidance, which leads to fewer opportunities to build connections. But when they feel safe, they develop deep connections with friends and family and don't take relationships for granted.

Can You Have a Normal Social Life With Social Anxiety?

Yes, you can have a normal life with social anxiety, but your ‘normal life’ might look a bit different from others.

For you, it might mean smaller gatherings over big parties, one-on-one conversations over group dynamics, or needing more recovery time after socializing.

Many people with social anxiety learn to manage their symptoms well enough that others around them have no idea they're struggling. Others are more open about it and build relationships with people who understand and respect their limits. Both paths are valid.

Effects of Social Anxiety on Career and Success

Social anxiety can play a role in how well you perform and grow in your job. The study found that people with social anxiety disorder face more problems related to jobs than those without it. They often feel they do not have enough skills or experience, especially for people-facing jobs.

Since people with SAD struggle to introduce themselves to strangers at parties, they can’t really network. This can create a professional ceiling effect: talented people who never quite reach the positions they're capable of.

People with Social Anxiety Still Succeed Professionally

It will be quite a challenge, but there are some ways people can manage SAD to progress professionally:

  • Find work environments that align with one's strengths
  • Build skills gradually through exposure
  • Getting proper therapy for social anxiety
  • Get a remote job so you can contribute meaningfully without the constant social demands of a traditional office.

What Happens if You Don’t Treat Social Anxiety?

If you don’t put in the effort to manage social anxiety, it tends to grow. The avoidance expands. The comfort zone gets smaller. And the long‑term consequences go well beyond feeling awkward at parties.

  • Since it produces chronic stress, it weakens immunity and causes digestive issues and cardiovascular diseases.
  • It increases the chances of developing depression, substance abuse, negative self‑talk, and isolation.
  • The person develops low self‑esteem and hypersensitivity to criticism.

Contact an Expert Therapist for Social Anxiety

If you think you have social anxiety, do not wait until it gets worse. You might think that isolation will fix it. In fact, it needs to be treated by a licensed therapist and mental health experts at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates. Call us or schedule an appointment today to get immediate treatment.