Also known as “social phobia,” social anxiety disorder causes someone to fear regular social interactions intensely. This is more than shyness or a fear of public speaking—someone with social anxiety disorder excessively worries about being judged during everyday situations, such as making eye contact with someone or talking to a stranger. They may be reluctant to attend school, work, a date, or a party, and they may also feel anxious about eating in front of others, using public restrooms, or returning items to stores.
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS OF SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER
In addition to feeling anxiety, embarrassment, fear, humiliation, or self-consciousness, someone with social anxiety disorder may experience:
- Blushing
- Difficulty catching their breath
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle tension
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Voice shakiness
If someone with a social anxiety disorder experiences physical signs like the ones listed above, they may also worry that others will notice that they appear anxious.
HOW IS SOCIAL ANXIETY TREATED?
Treatment for social anxiety disorder varies depending on factors such as symptom severity. Many people with this type of anxiety benefit from attending psychotherapy and taking medication such as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), an anti-anxiety medication, or a beta-blocker.
THE PROVIDER TO CHOOSE FOR ANXIETY-RELATED DISORDERS
If you’re worried that you have social anxiety disorder or another type of anxiety (i.e., panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder, etc.), you can rely on me for psychotherapy treatment. I regularly assist clients with managing anxiety and can do the same for you. Contact me today to arrange an appointment.
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