anxiety-disorders

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?Social anxiety disorder is a serious anxiety disorder that can hinder with daily life. While many people are uncomfortable or nervous when they are in social situations, those with social anxiety disorder experience intense anxiety and anxiety. It can affect their relationships and careers. And it can lead to depression and substance abuse.Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as medication and role-playing or social skills training. Antidepressants, including beta blockers and selective serotonin release inhibitors (SSRIs) are prescribed.SymptomsSocial anxiety disorder can cause people to feel intense fear or distress in situations where they believe others will observe their actions and judge their behavior negatively. This includes situations such as meeting new people, eating or drinking in public, or giving a speech. The person could be able to either avoid the fearful occasion or suffer great distress and anxiety. These feelings are out of proportion to the actual risk or embarrassment. They also cause major disruptions in daily life and can affect relationships. People who suffer from this condition are less likely of having close friends, finding a job, or maintaining intimate relationships. They are also more susceptible to depression and addiction issues.Symptoms of this disorder can include shaking, blushing, or sweating. The person may not be able to communicate clearly or make eye contact. He or she may tremble when speaking on the phone or writing and have trouble maintaining the job because of poor performance in meetings or in interviews.In severe cases, the symptoms of this disorder could cause a person to develop other anxiety disorders or major depression disorder, and to have suicidal thoughts. In these cases the treatment is typically more intensive and should be supervised by an experienced mental health professional who has experience in treating these disorders.Some psychotherapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be able to aid in treating social anxiety. CBT is a method of changing negative thoughts or beliefs that cause the disorder. It also teaches people to deal with situations that trigger anxiety slowly, with the help of a therapist in a safe environment. Another form of psychotherapy, called exposure and response prevention or cognitive delivered exposure, can be utilized to aid people suffering from extreme social anxiety disorder.The use of medication is usually in conjunction with psychological treatments to ease symptoms of this disorder. These medications can help reduce the uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms associated with this disorder. Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, such as paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft) or Venlafaxine (Effexor XR), are typically prescribed for this disorder. Beta blockers and other antidepressants can also be beneficial.DiagnosisMost people experience some degree of anxiety in certain social settings. For instance, making new acquaintances, going out on a date or performing. However, when the anxiety becomes overwhelming and interferes with the daily routine, a diagnosis of a social anxiety disorder might be required. Also called social phobia, the condition is not based on the person’s personality or environment and differs from shyness. It is a real, chronic disease that requires treatment.A health professional will usually diagnose a condition by talking to the patient and performing an examination. The therapist will then suggest psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy) or medication to control symptoms.Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of talk therapy that helps manage anxiety. This approach assists the patient to identify and change negative beliefs and thoughts about social situations that trigger anxiety. It can help people learn to handle stressful situations, such as practicing relaxation techniques or calming breathing. It can also include an exposure therapy, which involves gradually exposing the person to the social situations they are afraid of under the guidance of their therapist.Many people suffering from social anxiety disorder find relief from prescription medications, including antidepressants and antianxiety medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft) are the primary type of medication used to treat this condition, but others may work similarly. Sometimes, it takes a few attempts to find the best medication for an individual.Research has demonstrated that combination therapy is the most effective. This may include CBT and exposure therapy or other kinds of psychological treatment like interpersonal therapy. It is crucial that individuals receive treatment for anxiety because it can cause depression or addictions, such as alcohol and drugs. It can also cause problems at school or work and lead to isolation.People who suffer from social anxiety might benefit from expressive therapies, such as art therapy. This therapy helps people learn to express themselves through painting, drawing or other creative activities. It has been demonstrated that in some cases it can reduce the severity symptoms of anxiety.TreatmentMany people are nervous when they meet new people or deliver a presentation. When the fear and anxiety continue, it can become a mental disorder, known as social anxiety disorder or phobia. It is more than shyness and requires treatment. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication or both.Often, the first step is getting a diagnosis from a health professional, such as a physician or counselor. The doctor or counselor will examine the situation to determine if there are any physical problems causing the symptoms, and then refer you for an expert in mental health, like psychologist or psychiatrist.The most popular psychotherapy used to treat social anxiety disorders is called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In CBT, you will be guided by a qualified therapist to challenge negative thoughts and discover more effective ways to handle stressful situations. You can also learn relaxation techniques and how to face your fears by taking one step at a. CBT usually takes place over several sessions, and you could be required to complete your homework between sessions.Social anxiety disorder can be treated with antidepressants. 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 trigger side effects such as insomnia or headaches.Medications that block the stimulating effect of adrenaline, such as beta-blockers, are also available and can aid in reducing certain physical symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heart rate and blood pressure, sweating and shaking the limbs and voice. These medications can be addictive and sedative. Therefore, doctors don’t usually prescribe these medications to treat social anxiety.Children who suffer from social anxiety may be able to overcome the condition as they get older However, if the disorder is not treated, it can cause serious depression and mental health issues. If your child is suffering from severe social anxiety consult your GP regarding treatment options.PreventionIt’s normal to feel nervous or anxious when you are in a social context, such as meeting new people or presenting a presentation. However, this feeling can turn into a disorder when it causes disruption to your daily routine and causes you distress. It is more than shyness, and it can affect your self-esteem, relationships and even your school or work performance. It is crucial to seek treatment if struggling with this condition. There are numerous ways to seek help ranging from therapy, medication, and support groups.Social anxiety sufferers typically acknowledge that their fears are irrational and exaggerated, yet they are unable to overcome these fears. They might avoid social interactions and are unable to access opportunities for education, work, and friendships, and they are at greater risk of depression or substance abuse.Treatment for social anxiety usually includes talk therapy and methods for managing stress, such as breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation. A therapist can help you overcome the negative, harmful thoughts that cause your social anxiety. They will then replace these thoughts with more balanced ones. They can also use social skills training, role-playing as well as other cognitive behavior therapies (CBT) to help you to gradually confront the situations that cause anxiety in a safe setting.Certain of the symptoms that are associated with social anxiety can be cured with medication, such as heart palpitations and excessive sweating. Before taking any medication, those who suffer from social anxiety must discuss the potential adverse effects with their doctor.Some mental health professionals recommend avoid substances that could make your symptoms worse, including alcohol, caffeine, and drugs. They may suggest that you take enough rest and eat a balanced diet. They might also advise you to take an outdoor walk which can provide a calming effect and help you to focus on the beauty around you.There are a variety of ways to manage social anxiety. If you’re looking for treatment or medication, it is crucial to begin treatment early so that your symptoms don’t spiral out of control and keep you from living the life you want to live. If anxiety disorder medication require assistance, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed, reputable professional who can assist you to deal with your emotions and flourish in your daily life.