Do you have intense fear about going into public spaces? Maybe your trepidation has come so far that you’re actively avoiding those situations. Whatever the case, it may be time to see a social anxiety therapist.
Therapists can help with this unique anxiety disorder, working with you to get to the root cause of the issue and find solutions that help you live a more productive and comfortable life.
What is Social Anxiety?
Social anxiety disorder is a condition identified by anxiety about specific social situations. Usually, these fears stem from the belief that you’d be judged, ridiculed, or otherwise humiliated.
Symptoms can start mild, but the anxiety can progress to a point where they negatively impact your life. The distress can prevent you from reaching your full potential, interfering with your daily life in many ways.
A therapist begins their time with you by diagnosing social anxiety. They’ll go over your symptoms and hear your story. Providers may also recommend a physical and medical examination to ensure that those anxieties are not a byproduct of health issues.
How to Treat Social Anxiety
There are a few ways to treat this condition. The first is through psychotherapy. More specifically, your social anxiety therapist may use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. This treatment helps you recognize and change negative thoughts about social situations. It aims to help you gain exposure to anxiety-inducing experiences, equipping you with the tools to cope and gain confidence.
Treatment may or may not involve medication. Psychotherapy is the preferred treatment choice, but prescriptions for paroxetine or sertraline may be necessary. They can help you manage anxiety, making it easier to confront social situations confidently.
Getting the Help You Need
Social anxiety is an often-overlooked issue that many people chalk up to shyness. But those who suffer from this disorder know that it has the potential to be debilitating. Don’t hesitate to get help if your anxieties interfere with your everyday life. A therapist is there to help you move forward and make a change.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown writes about physiotherapy. She advises people on health care, online therapy, anxiety discussion groups & depression message boards. You can find her thoughts at social anxiety blog.
