(HealthScoutNews) -- For hundreds of thousands of American kids, the start of a new school year means coping with more than just the disappointment that summer vacation is over.

About 1 percent (400,000) of children and teens between the ages of 10 and 18 suffer from social anxiety disorder, a psychiatric condition caused by an intense fear of being judged or scrutinized by other people. The disorder, also called social phobia, can lead to severe social withdrawal and problems with daily functioning.

They may invent reasons why they can't go to school, refuse to ride on the school bus, and refuse to take part in after-school activities.

"In my clinical work, I've encountered children who would hide in the restroom instead of entering the school cafeteria for lunch hour," says Patricia DiBartolo, an associate professor of psychology at Smith College.

"In the classroom, these kids would desperately avoid speaking out or reading aloud in class. Some would lug all their books with them throughout the day, rather than stop at their lockers, where they might have to chat with a classmate," DiBartolo says.

If the symptoms of social phobia aren't treated, they can increase over time and hinder a child's natural progress and growth. Preemptive treatment can make a huge difference for these children.

Treatment includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, where children are gradually exposed to anxiety-causing situations.

DiBartolo says parents and teachers should take note of adolescents' social behavior by watching them over a month or two to see how they deal with the normal challenges of the school day. That includes observing how they interact and develop relationships with other children, whether they speak in class, and whether they approach exams with undue anxiety.

More Information

The Center for Mental Health Services has more information on adolescent mental health issues.

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