The prevalence of social anxiety disorder: A school related experience in Makkah city, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Fewer researches have been conducted on social phobia in the context of severe social inequality and poverty, as seen in most developing countries. In this study, we addressed the prevalence of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) among school students and teachers in Makkah city.Methodology: Using a standardized tool for investigating Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN), an online survey was distributed among schools during September 2022. After data collection, an appropriate statistical analysis was implemented. Results: A total of 396 participants were enrolled in this survey.This study showed a high prevalence of SAD, while students showed a high prevalence rate of SAD compared with teachers. Moreover, moderate levels of SAD represent the highest frequency among other SAD intensities. A significant variation was found between participants with a previous positive history of SAD and mild SAD (P-value, 0.002). Similarly, participants with no history of SAD show significant variation with both ''No SAD'' and ''Mild SAD'' (P-value, 0.002). Conclusion: This study reported a high prevalence of SAD compared to other studies. Accordingly, we recommend more studies in Saudi Arabia.