Struggle with the spotlight or just shy? We'll help you unpack that knotty question and more, offering a roadmap to understanding the twists and turns of social anxiety disorder. With a dash of humor to lighten the load, we share candid tales from our own lives, including my epic battle with the fear of dentists, revealing how these personal vignettes illuminate the broader psychological concepts. Welcoming a special guest, cultural expert To Keio, we delve into how societal norms can exacerbate or mask symptoms, and we dissect the critical six-month marker that separates fleeting worry from a diagnosable condition. Our conversation doesn't stop at social fears; it expands to the entire spectrum of anxiety and autism disorders. As we explore the landscape of these conditions, we highlight the signature worries of generalized anxiety disorder and the unique social and behavioral patterns seen in autism, painting a picture of how these challenges arise from within rather than external pressures. With our expert guest, we break down the expected age of onset for these disorders and offer insights that not only prime you for acing exams but also deepen your compassion for those living with these often invisible struggles. Tune in for an episode that's as informative as it is heartfelt, guiding you through the complexities of mental health with knowledge and empathy. If you need to study for your national licensing exam, try the free samplers at: LicensureExams This podcast is not associated with the NBCC, AMFTRB, ASW, ANCC, NASP, NAADAC, CCMC, NCPG, CRCC, or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.