Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder is more than just shyness, but rather a serious mental health condition. Those with the disorder experience intense fear about social interaction, often due to irrational worries. These fears can interfere with one’s work, relationships, and other daily activities. However, treatment is available for social anxiety disorder and has proven beneficial for many.
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social anxiety disorder is a common anxiety disorder that causes symptoms of anxiety and/or fear in social situations. The person may fear humiliation, judgment, or rejection.
Everyday tasks such as ordering food, asking a question in class, using a public restroom, or more, can all be a challenge for those with the disorder. The fear is often so strong that individuals feel as though it is beyond their control. This can lead to troubles functioning throughout day-to-day life.
Symptoms
Although symptoms vary, those with social anxiety disorder may experience the following symptoms when in front of or around others:
- Not speaking or only speaking quietly
- Making little eye contact
- Feeling nauseous
- Blushing, sweating, and/or trembling
- Having a hard time talking to people
- Feeling very self-conscious
- Isolating from others
Treatment
Treatment plans vary, so it is important to speak with your health care provider to create a plan tailored to your specific needs. Your provider may refer you to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, counselor, or psychologist.
Social anxiety disorder is generally treated with psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, or a combination of both.
- There are various types of psychotherapy, but cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used in treatment of this disorder. CBT helps teach individuals different ways to think and react in situations that cause anxiety.
- Medication types that are commonly used to treat social anxiety disorder include anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, and beta-blockers.
Finding TREATMENT AND RESOURCES
- To learn more about social anxiety disorder we recommend contacting your health care provider.
- To read more, the following resources are suggested:
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