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What is Social Anxiety Disorder? Social anxiety disorder is a serious anxiety disorder that can hinder with everyday life. Although most people feel uncomfortable or anxious when they are in social situations, those with social anxiety disorder experience intense anxiety and anxiety. It can affect their relationships and careers. It can also lead to depression and substance abuse. Treatment may include cognitive behavioral therapy including medication, role-playing, medication and social skills training. Antidepressants, such as beta blockers and selective serotonin release inhibitors (SSRIs), can be prescribed. Symptoms Social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense fear and distress when people are afraid that others will be negative about them based on their behavior. This can include meeting people who are not familiar with them drinking or eating in public, and giving speeches or performing. The person could avoid the feared situation or endure it with intense anxiety and stress. These feelings are out of proportion to the actual danger or embarrassment involved. They also cause significant disruptions in daily life and interfere with relationships. People with this condition are less likely to make close friends, find jobs, or maintain close relationships. They are also more vulnerable to depression and addiction issues. The condition can cause blushing, sweating or shaking. The person may not be able to communicate clearly or maintain eye contact. The person may feel tense while talking on the phone or writing and struggle to maintain an employment position due to poor performance in meetings or interviews. In severe cases, this disorder can lead to other anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, and suicidal thoughts. In these cases the treatment is typically more intensive and should be supervised by an experienced mental health professional who has expertise in treating these disorders. Some types of psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful to combat social anxiety. http://lovethegiver.com/activity/p/558815/ is a method of changing negative thoughts or beliefs which cause the disorder. It also teaches a person to deal with situations that trigger anxiety slowly, with the assistance of an experienced therapist in a secure environment. Another type of psychotherapy known as exposure and response prevention or cognitive delivered exposure, can be used to assist people suffering from extreme social anxiety disorder. It is common to use medication in conjunction with psychological therapies to alleviate symptoms of this disorder. The medications can lessen or eliminate the painful and embarrassing symptoms of this disorder. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, such as paroxetine (Paxil) or sertraline (Zoloft), or Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) are commonly prescribed for this disorder. Other antidepressants and beta blockers can also be helpful. Diagnosis Everyone is nervous in certain social situations, such as meeting new people, going out on dates or performing an event. If the fear is so overwhelming that it interferes with your daily life you might need to be diagnosed with a social anxiety disorder. The condition, also known as social anxiety disorder, is not solely based on the personality of the individual or their surroundings. It is different from shyness. It is a persistent real disease that requires treatment. A doctor can usually diagnose the condition through a conversation with the patient and performing an examination. The therapist might then suggest psychotherapy, also referred to as talk therapy, or medication to control symptoms. Some types of talk therapy can help with anxiety, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This method helps people identify and change negative beliefs and attitudes about social situations that cause anxiety. It can teach people how to manage stressful situations, such as practicing breathing techniques to relax or calm. It could also include an exposure therapy that involves gradually exposing the person to the social situations that they are afraid of under the guidance of a therapist. Many people suffering from social anxiety disorder can find relief from prescription medication, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medications. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline, (Zoloft) are used to treat social anxiety disorder. However, other medications could be equally efficient. It can take a number of attempts to find the right medication. Art therapy, for example, can be beneficial to certain people suffering from social anxiety. The therapy teaches people to express themselves through painting, drawing or other creative activities. It has been proven that in certain instances, it can lessen the severity symptoms of anxiety. Treatment Many people feel anxious when they meet new people or deliver an presentation. However, if anxiety and fear persist in the long run, it can lead to a mental health issue called social anxiety disorder or phobia. It's more than shyness and requires treatment. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, or both. A health professional such as counselor or doctor, can often provide a diagnosis. The doctor will conduct a check to determine if physical issues are behind your symptoms and then recommend you to a mental health professional for help, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The most commonly used psychotherapy to treat social anxiety disorder is called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT the counselor or therapist helps you overcome negative patterns of thinking and learn better ways to handle stressful situations. You may also learn relaxation techniques and ways to face your fears by taking small steps at a time. CBT usually takes place over several sessions. You might be asked to complete homework in between sessions. Antidepressants are often used to treat anxiety disorders and are 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). These drugs typically take a few weeks before you begin to notice effects, and they can cause side effects such as insomnia or headaches. Medicines that block the stimulant effects of adrenaline, including beta-blockers, are also available and may aid in reducing some of the physical symptoms of anxiety, including rapid blood pressure and heart rate as well as sweating and shaking of voice and limbs. But since these medications can cause dependence and induce sedation doctors don't usually prescribe them for general treatment of social anxiety. Research shows that children who suffer from social anxiety may outgrow it as they get older However, if the condition is left untreated it could lead to serious depression and other mental health problems. If your child has severe social anxiety disorder talk to your GP about the treatment options available. Prevention While it's normal to feel anxious or nervous in certain social situations, such as meeting new people or giving an oral presentation, this feeling can become a disorder when it interferes with everyday activities and causes anxiety. This is more than just shyness. It can affect your self esteem as well as relationships, and even your work or school performance. If you have issues with this issue it is crucial to seek out help. There are many ways to seek help, that include therapy, medication, and support groups. People with social anxiety usually recognize that their fears are irrational and exaggerated, but they struggle to overcome them. They may avoid social interactions and do not have the opportunity to gain education, work, and friendships, and are more likely to be depressed or substance abuse. Treatment for social anxiety usually involves talk therapy and strategies for managing stress like breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation. A therapist can assist you to challenge the negative, unhelpful thoughts that cause your social anxiety. They then help you replace these thoughts with more positive ones. They can also use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and social skills training, and role-playing to help you face the situations that make you anxious in a safe setting.
Some of the symptoms associated with social anxiety can be treated by medication, including heart palpitations and excessive sweating. Before taking any medication, those who suffer from social anxiety must discuss the possible side effects with their doctor. Some mental health professionals suggest avoiding substances like caffeine, alcohol or other drugs that could cause more symptoms. They may suggest that you get enough sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. You might be advised to take a stroll outside, which can aid in relaxing and focusing on the beauty of nature. Getting help for social anxiety is quite common, and there are many treatment options available. If you're looking for treatment or medication, it is important to start treatment early so that your symptoms don't get out of control and keep you from living the life you desire. If you're in need of assistance, BetterHelp can match you with a certified, licensed professional who can assist you to deal with your emotions and flourish in your daily life. |
