Is it better when people KNOW you're socially anxious?

My immediate family knows and 1 (and only) friend knows. Nobody knew about it at work until one day I had a terrible episode and my boss found out but she seemed sincere and accommodating which eased my embarrassment and feelings of being weak.

Other than that, I try to keep it to myself.

I told my parents so they know. It was such a relief to tell them because they don't force me to attend family gatherings anymore. But I haven't told my friends about my SA because they looked real busy with work and seemed so happy that I don't want to spoil the mood. I don't want to drag anybody down with me.

If ever somebody asks me to go out somewhere with them, i think would tell them about my SA, just to explain why there is no way I'm going with them. My parents think i can just stop having SA or just snap out of depression.