NU Talks… Social Anxiety Disorder

IS SOCIAL ANXIETY DISORDER TREATABLE?

Good News! Social anxiety disorder is a very treatable condition. It impacts people on a significant level, however, as the world is a very social place. Often individuals with social anxiety disorder experience noticable improvement with appropriate treatment and in hindsight cannot believe they once lived in such fear and discomfort.

Treatment for social anxiety disorder may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and beta-blockers can help reduce symptoms of anxiety in some individuals with social anxiety disorder. A doctor can guide this interventio if necessary.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are two of the most effective forms of therapy for social anxiety disorder, and can help individuals learn new coping strategies and overcome their fears. CBT can help individuals with social anxiety disorder identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs, and can help individuals develop coping strategies to manage social anxiety in a healthy way. Exposure therapy involves gradually and systematically exposing individuals to feared social situations in a safe and controlled environment, and can help individuals build confidence and overcome their fears.

At NU Psychology, we work closely with our clients to assess symptoms and develop a comprehensive and individualized plan for treatment. With appropriate care and support, individuals often report experience improvement in symptoms and overall functioning.