Most people feel anxious in social situations from time to time. Giving a presentation at work, going on a first date, and many other social situations can make people nervous.
However, some people experience social anxiety that can impact their functioning and quality of life. People with social anxiety disorder (sometimes called social phobia) may feel self-conscious or anxious during everyday social interactions. They may dread everyday activities like going to the grocery store or work.
People with symptoms of social anxiety disorder may avoid social situations or live with chronic anxiety. They may struggle to function or maintain healthy relationships. Fortunately, social anxiety disorder responds well to evidence-based mental health treatment.
This article will explore social anxiety disorder and its treatment. You will learn:
If you or someone you love experiences symptoms of social anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Effective, compassionate mental health treatment is available at Agape Behavioral Center. Contact our intake specialists for information about our programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
Social anxiety disorder is a mental health condition affecting an estimated 7.1% of U.S adults. Some may also refer to this condition as “social phobia.” This condition causes people to feel anxious in everyday social situations. It is different than simply being shy or uncomfortable around others.
Social anxiety disorder causes people to feel anxiety and fear in social situations. This fear can lead to avoidance of all social situations. Avoiding social situations can significantly impact a person’s relationships, work, daily routines, and more.
Some scenarios that are challenging for people with social anxiety disorder include:
Many people begin to exhibit symptoms of social anxiety disorder during their teenage years. However, younger children or adults may show signs of the condition.
Mental health conditions often have complex roots in a person’s genetics, behaviors, and more. Research suggests several potential causes of social anxiety disorder, including:
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, social anxiety disorder can have emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms. These symptoms include:
People may have physical fear and anxiety symptoms in social situations, including:
These symptoms–and fear of experiencing these symptoms–can make people with social anxiety disorder avoid social situations. This condition can negatively impact people’s social and emotional well-being.
Fortunately, social anxiety disorder is a treatable condition. People can learn to manage their symptoms and improve functioning.
Treatment for social anxiety disorder typically includes assessment, medications, and talk therapy.
Doctors may prescribe medications to help people manage their symptoms. Common anti-anxiety medications include:
People must work with a licensed mental health professional to determine the best medication. People may try more than one prescription drug to find the one with minimal side effects.
People with anxiety disorders benefit from participating in talk therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapies can help people identify and change negative thoughts. It also gives people a safe place to process emotions and learn new coping skills.
People may participate in one-on-one therapy or support groups for those with anxiety.
If you or someone you love struggles with social anxiety or another mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral Center to learn about our anxiety treatment programs or schedule an appointment.
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