Social Anxiety Disorder - Diagnosis and Self Help

Social Anxiety Disorder - Diagnosis and Self Help Social Anxiety Disorder Print An Overview of Social Anxiety Disorder By Arlin Cuncic Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of Therapy in Focus: What to Expect from CBT for Social Anxiety Disorder and 7 Weeks to Reduce Anxiety. Learn about our editorial policy Arlin Cuncic Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on February 04, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on January 14, 2020 Social Anxiety Disorder Overview Symptoms & Diagnosis Causes Treatment Living With In Children Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a common but under-diagnosed mental health condition experienced across different age groups and cultures. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with SAD or you think you may be experiencing symptoms of the disorder, learning more about what to expect can help. What Is Social Anxiety Disorder? People with SAD have an irrational fear of being watched, judged, or of embarrassing or humiliating themselves. The anxiety and discomfort become  so extreme that it interferes with daily functioning. While it can be a debilitating disorder, appropriate treatment recovery is possible. SAD is one of the most common mental disorders, with up to 13 percent of the general population experiencing symptoms at some point in their life. Causes Social anxiety disorder usually begins in the teenage years although  it may start in childhood. While the exact cause of SAD is unknown, it is believed to result from a combination of both genetic and environmental factors.   Imbalances in brain chemistry have been linked to SAD. For example, an imbalance in the neurotransmitter serotonin, a brain chemical that regulates mood and emotions, may play a role in the development of social anxiety disorder.   Over-activity of a structure in the brain called the  amygdala  has also been linked to social anxiety. People with SAD may be predisposed to an exaggerated fear response and, in turn, increased anxiety. Several environmental factors may also increase your risk of developing SAD. These include but are not limited to: Having an overly critical, controlling, or protective parentBeing bullied or teased as a childFamily conflict or sexual abuseA shy, timid, or withdrawn temperament as a child Understanding the Causes of Social Anxiety Disorder Symptoms People with social anxiety disorder know that their fear is out of proportion to the actual situation, but they are still unable to control their anxiety. The anxiety may be specific to one type of social or performance situation, or it may occur in all situations.   Some of the situations that are common triggers include interacting with strangers, making  eye contact,  and initiating  conversations.  People with social anxiety disorder may experience cognitive, physical, and behavioral symptoms before, during, and after these social and performance situations. Examples of cognitive symptoms: Fearing situations where you dont know other peopleWorrying that you will be judged by othersFear of becoming embarrassed or being humiliatedThinking that others will notice your anxietyDreading upcoming events weeks in advance Examples of physical symptoms: BlushingProfuse sweatingTrembling handsMuscle tensionRacing heart Examples of behavioral symptoms: Avoiding social/performance activitiesLeaving/escaping situationsUsing safety behaviors Symptoms of SAD Diagnosis Social anxiety disorder is recognized as a diagnosable mental illness in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). It is also classified as an illness within the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10), which is published by the World Health Organization (WHO). SAD is generally diagnosed through a clinical interview with a mental health professional in which one is asked a number of questions related to their symptoms. In order to receive a diagnosis, a person must meet a number of specific diagnostic criteria. Fear must also be so severe that it significantly impedes daily life, schoolwork, jobs, relationships, or one experiences serious distress about their symptoms. Depending on whether symptoms are experienced in only a few situations or in most areas of life, one may be diagnosed with either generalized or specific SAD. The best first step if you have symptoms associated with SAD is to make an appointment with a therapist or mental health professional via a phone call or email. Sharing any thoughts and feelings about your symptoms even with your primary care physician is a great first step. No need to worry about where to startâ€"as long as youre honestly expressing some of what youre feeling, you will be on your way to better understanding your needs. You can start by taking some notes on your symptoms to share so you can reference those during your appointment. Social Anxiety Disorder Discussion Guide Get our printable guide to help you ask the right questions at your next doctors appointment. Download PDF Treatment The most commonly used evidence-based treatments for social anxiety disorder are medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Often these two forms of treatment are used together for best results. In addition to CBT, there are a number of other types of therapy that may be used, either in an individual or group format.   Medications used to treat SAD: BenzodiazepinesBeta-blockersMonoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)Selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) Talk therapies used in the treatment of SAD: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)Psychodynamic therapyInterpersonal therapy (IPT)Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) In addition to medication and therapy, some people use alternative treatments such as dietary supplements or hypnotherapy. In general, research evidence does not yet exist to support the use of alternative treatments for SAD. Get Support With the 7 Best Online Anxiety Support Groups Self-Help Strategies Self-help strategies for social anxiety disorder can be useful as an add-on to traditional treatment or for relieving mild symptoms. Examples of strategies include the following: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, guided imagery, autogenic training, and progressive muscle relaxationMonitoring your own negative thoughts and replacing them with more helpful onesExposing yourself gradually to feared situationsAromatherapySelf-help booksJoining online forums to connect with othersHealthy self-care such as eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep While self-help strategies are never a replacement for traditional treatment, they may help you to feel more in control of your symptoms. Best Self-Help Strategies for Social Anxiety Disorder Work and School Social anxiety disorder can have an effect on your ability to attend school and work at a job. Starting in a new place, making friends, giving presentations, eating with othersâ€"these and other aspects of school and work are all triggers for those with social anxiety. If you have been diagnosed with SAD, you can apply for accommodations at your workplace or college. If you have a child diagnosed with SAD, communication with teachers and support staff will be important to ensure that your childs needs are being met. If SAD prevents you from working, you can also apply for social assistance. There are many supports in place to help those with mental health issues. If you arent sure where to start, asking your mental health professional is a good way to go.   Social Skills Improving your social skills is an important component of social anxiety disorder treatment. Various aspects of social skills may be impaired in those with SAD, mostly because youve never had a chance to practice. In general, you will want to work on improving communication skillsâ€"whether that means learning how to make small talk or understanding others body language better. If Youre Recently Diagnosed With Social Anxiety Disorder Slow down and take a breath! Although a diagnosis of SAD may feel scary, it is the best first step toward improving your situation. You will probably receive medication, therapy, or a combination of both to treat the disorder. You may also be eligible for more support if you attend school or work. Living With Social Anxiety Disorder In addition to receiving professional treatment, you can do a number of things to help cope with SAD. Some of these include practicing relaxation exercises, getting enough sleep, and eating a well-balanced diet. It is important not to avoid situations that make you anxious. While avoidance may reduce your anxiety in the short-term, it will make things worse long term. If you find yourself feeling anxious, it may help to remind yourself that you can get through the situation, that your anxiety is usually short-lived, and that your worst fears are not likely to come true. Remember that feeling anxious and nervous is not a sign of weakness or inferiority. SAD is a medical condition that requires attention. If left untreated, it can lead to other health problems such as  substance abuse  or risk of  depression. However, with proper treatment and ongoing care, your quality of life can be much improved. Next Steps to Consider If youre unsure whether you or someone you love is experiencing  social anxiety disorder, its best to make an appointment with a doctor. This will put you on the path toward diagnosis, treatment, and living your life more fully. You may even find that down the road you can serve as an advocate for others in the same situation as you. A Word From Verywell Although this may feel like a frightening journey you have embarked upon, learning more about social anxiety disorder and finding treatment can be the first step toward lessening the impact that it has on your life. Its okay to feel afraid to take that first stepâ€"take a deep breath and know that you are making the right decision.