Have you felt your heart race in a crowded room? Does the thought of social gatherings make you uneasy?
As a trusted intensive outpatient program in Tucson, we at In Balance Counseling offer a supportive environment where you can explore these feelings. A social anxiety disorder diagnosis means understanding the triggers causing distress and addressing them.
Keep reading as we break down the nitty-gritty details.
Identifying Social Anxiety
The first step is to differentiate usual shyness from the characteristics of social anxiety disorder. The official criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) from the American Psychiatric Association include:
- Persistent phobia of people judging you negatively and feeling embarrassed or humiliated
- Enduring social situations with intense anxiety or full avoidance
- Distress that causes impairment in your day-to-day activities
- Fear or anxiety that doesn’t stem from another medical condition, medication, or substance abuse
If any of these resonate with your experiences, it’s time to consult your healthcare provider. They may obtain an official diagnosis through:
- Physical examinations
- In-depth consultations that discuss the symptoms, how often they occur, and when
- Providing self-report questionnaires about social anxiety symptoms
The Path Forward
You should never feel embarrassed about a social anxiety disorder diagnosis. About 5% to 10% of people across the world have it, so it’s more common than you think. Modern treatments have made it possible to manage and overcome the condition effectively.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, often referred to as talk therapy, involves working with a trained therapist to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a subset of this approach, and many consider it one of the most effective treatments for social anxiety disorder.
It aims to spot negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and change them. Individuals learn coping strategies, gradually face fearful social situations, and ultimately develop healthier ways to manage their condition.
Medication
Have you ever heard of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)? Many with social anxiety disorders have naturally low levels of serotonin — the chemical that significantly influences emotions. SSRIs, such as sertraline or fluoxetine, work to increase it to help improve mood.
Most specialists recommend therapy to tackle social anxiety, while medication serves as an additional support. Have a frank conversation with your doctor; they will work with you and recommend a suitable prescription and dosage. It’s crucial to monitor for any side effects and actively communicate concerns with them.
Some cases call for alternatives like antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers.
Work With Specialists Who Care
Are you ready to take the next step? Addressing your social anxiety disorder diagnosis can improve personal relationships, boost job performance, and enhance your overall quality of life. It’s all about finding a support network.
In Balance Counseling provides individual therapy sessions and group programs tailor-fit to your needs. You’re not just another client; you’re part of a community committed to your growth.
Dial 520-722-9631 or fill out our form if you need therapy — everyone deserves a space where they feel heard and understood. Reach out today.