What is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder is a severe anxiety disorder that can cause problems with everyday life. Although most people feel nervous or uncomfortable when in social situations, those with social anxiety disorder experience extreme anxiety and fear. It affects their relationships and careers. It can also lead to depression and drug abuse.

Treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy including medication, role-playing, medication and social skills training. Treatment options include antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and beta blockers.

Symptoms

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by extreme fear and anxiety when people are afraid that people will criticize them for their conduct. This includes situations such as meeting new people, eating or drinking in public, or giving speeches. The person could avoid the situation they fear or be in anxiety and stress. These feelings are not in proportion to the danger or embarrassment. They also cause significant disruptions to daily life and interfere with relationships. People with this condition are less likely to have close relationships, get jobs, or maintain intimate relationships. They are also at higher risk of depression and substance abuse.

The symptoms of this disorder could include shaking, blushing or sweating. The patient may not be able speak clearly or maintain eye contact. He or she might tremble when speaking on the phone or writing, and could be unable to maintain the job due to inadequate performance in interviews or meetings.

In severe cases, this disorder may lead to other anxiety disorders, major depression disorder and suicidal thinking. In these situations, the treatment is usually more intense and should be guided an expert in mental health who is experienced in treating these disorders.

Some types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be used to treat social anxiety disorder. CBT is a method of changing negative beliefs or thoughts that cause the disorder. It also helps a person to face situations that cause anxiety slowly, with the assistance of a therapist in a safe environment. A type of psychotherapy called exposure and response or cognitive delivered exposure can be utilized to treat those who have extreme social anxiety.

Psychological treatments are usually combined with medication to treat symptoms of this disorder. These medications can reduce the embarrassing and uncomfortable symptoms that are associated with this disorder. The treatment for this disorder is typically with selective serotonin reuptake inhibits such as paroxetine, sertraline, or Venlafaxine. Other antidepressants and beta blockers can also be helpful.

Diagnosis

Most people feel anxious in certain social situations, like meeting new people, going on a date or giving an event. If the anxiety gets overwhelming and interferes with your daily life it is possible to be diagnosed with social anxiety disorder. The condition, which is also known as social anxiety disorder, is not based solely on the personality of the person or their environment. It is distinct from shyness. It is a genuine, chronic disease that requires treatment.

A medical professional will usually diagnose a condition by talking to the patient and performing an examination. The therapist could then recommend psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy, or medication to control symptoms.

Some types of talk therapy may aid in managing anxiety, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This method helps people recognize and alter negative beliefs and attitudes about social situations which trigger anxiety. It Can Anxiety disorder cause nausea teach people how to handle stressful situations, including relaxation techniques or calming breathing. It can also include an exposure therapy which involves gradually exposing a person to the social situations they are afraid of under the guidance of their counselor.

Many people suffering from social anxiety disorder get relief by taking prescription medications, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medications. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline, (Zoloft) have been used to treat anxiety disorders involving social interaction. However, other medications can be equally effective. It can take several attempts to determine the best medication.

Research has shown that a combination therapy is most effective. This can be CBT exposure therapy, or a different type of psychological treatment like interpersonal therapy. It is crucial that people seek treatment for anxiety, as the condition can lead to depression and addictions like alcohol or drugs for generalized anxiety disorder. It can also lead to problems at work or school and lead to isolation.

People who suffer from social anxiety may benefit from expressive therapies, like art therapy. This helps people express their feelings through drawing, painting, or other creative pursuits. It has been proven to decrease the severity of symptoms of anxiety in some instances.

Treatment

Many people feel anxious when they meet new people or deliver a presentation. However, if the fear and anxiety persist and it develops into a mental health disorder known as social anxiety disorder or fear. It is more than shyness and requires treatment. Therapy or medication, or both are options for treatment.

Often, the first step is to get a diagnosis from a health care professional, such as a physician or a counselor. He or she may check to see if there are any physical problems causing the symptoms, and then recommend you to an expert in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular method of psychotherapy to treat social anxiety disorders. In CBT, you will be guided by a skilled psychotherapist to rethink negative thoughts and discover new ways to cope with stressful situations. Additionally, you can try relaxation techniques and learn to face your fears in small steps. CBT usually runs over several sessions, and you may be asked to complete your homework between sessions.

Antidepressants are often used to treat anxiety disorders, and can be beneficial for certain people suffering from social anxiety disorders. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) are often prescribed for this condition, as well as the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). It could take several weeks before you begin feeling the effects of these drugs. They can also trigger side effects like insomnia or headache.

The use of medications that block the stimulating effect of adrenaline, such as beta-blockers are also available and may assist in controlling certain physical symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heart rate and blood pressure as well as shaking and sweating voice and limbs. But since these medications can be habit-forming and sedating, physicians don't typically prescribe them for general treatment of social anxiety.

Research suggests that children with social anxiety can overcome it as they get older however, if the disorder is not treated, it can result in severe depression and other mental health problems. Consult your GP in the event that your child suffers from severe social anxiety disorders.

The following is a list with preventions.

It's normal to feel nervous or anxious when you are in a social setting for example, when you meet new people or making a presentation. However, this feeling could turn into a disorder if it interferes with your daily routine and causes stress. This is more than shyness. It can affect your self esteem, relationships and the performance at work or at school. It is crucial to seek treatment if struggling with this issue. There are many options to help from medication to therapy to support groups.

Social anxiety sufferers are aware their fears might be unfounded or exaggerated, but they are still struggling to overcome them. They might avoid social interactions and miss out on opportunities for education, employment, and friendships, and they are more susceptible to depression or substance abuse.

Treatment for social anxiety typically includes therapy sessions and stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation. A therapist can teach you how to confront negative, unhelpful thoughts that contribute to your social anxiety and replace them with more balanced thoughts. They can also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as social skills training, and role-playing to help you face the situations that make you feel anxious in a safe environment.

Some of the symptoms that are associated with social anxiety can be cured by medication, including excessive sweating and heart palpitations. Before taking any medication, people with social anxiety should discuss possible side effects with their doctor.

Some mental health professionals recommend abstaining from substances such as caffeine, alcohol or other substances that may cause more symptoms. They may suggest that you get enough sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. You may be advised to take a stroll outside which will aid in relaxing and focusing on the beauty of nature.

There are a variety of ways to manage social anxiety. Whether you're seeking therapy or medication, it's important to start treatment early so that your symptoms don't spiral out of control and prevent you from living the life you desire. BetterHelp can connect you to an accredited and licensed counselor to help you manage your emotions.