For many people, socializing and connecting with others bring joy. But for people living with social anxiety disorder, those same moments can trigger overwhelming self-consciousness and fear. If you face social anxiety disorder, then completely avoiding social settings can feel like the only option. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social anxiety disorder goes beyond everyday shyness. It is a mental health condition that involves a persistent and intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social interactions. The fear experienced in such situations is excessive and overwhelming and can interfere with daily life, including school, work, and relationships.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
Physical Symptoms
Social anxiety disorder is characterized by –
- anxiety
- fear
- palpitations
- sweating,
- nervousness to the point of nausea, etc.
Thought and Behavioral Symptoms
- Feeling very afraid of being judged or rejected
- Being very self-conscious and feeling embarrassed or awkward in front of people
- Constantly avoiding places where there are people
These symptoms, both physical and cognitive, arise in social situations such as
- Meeting new people
- Taking or making phone calls
- Asking for help in a public place
- Performing in front of an audience
- Dating
General Treatment Options for Social Anxiety Disorder
Treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder can include:
- Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, or other options tailored to the needs of each patient)
- Supportive therapy to develop grounding and coping techniques
- Lifestyle strategies including mindfulness and gradual exposure support
How Reverent Health Psychiatry Helps Treat Social Anxiety Disorder
Our approach to treating social anxiety disorder at Reverent Health Psychiatry involves:
- Personalized medication management to reduce the intensity of anxiety symptoms.
- Brief supportive therapy focused on coping tools, relaxation strategies, and building confidence in social situations.
- Trauma-informed, holistic care that looks at underlying factors such as past experiences, stress triggers, and self-esteem.
- Referrals to therapy partners for longer-term interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is highly effective for social anxiety.
Don’t let fear hold you back from living fully
Begin your journey to confidence with our virtual psychiatric care from Reverent Health Psychiatry in New York and Tennessee.