More than shyness, social anxiety is the persistent fear of being judged or watched by others. It can affect school, work, and other activities if not appropriately addressed. It can even affect everyday activities like eating, drinking, or using a public restroom. Although it is a common disorder, there are still a few things people do not know or understand about social anxiety disorder. Here are some examples.
1. What Triggers Social Anxiety?
The main trigger of social anxiety is unknown, but a few factors can increase the risk. For example, if a family member has a social anxiety disorder, it is more likely that you will also develop the condition. There can also be some genetic factors that play a role in the development of social anxiety.
The environment can also be a factor, such as having some traumatic experiences that affect how you interact with others. For example, you are more likely to develop social anxiety if you are constantly victimized and bullied at school or work. It also adds up if there have been instances of getting shamed in public for several reasons.
2. Symptoms of Social Anxiety
If a social anxiety disorder is severe, it can affect your quality of life. It can affect your studies, your career, and your relationships. It can also lead to depression and other mental disorders. There are numerous symptoms of social anxiety, some of which are more obvious than others. For instance, people with social anxiety often avoid social interactions as much as possible. They tend to feel more comfortable being alone than in a group.
In addition, people with social anxiety tend to have difficulty communicating with others. When speaking, they often have difficulty thinking about what to say. They also have a problem looking others in the eye when they talk to them. People with social anxiety also tend to have a hard time making friends. They often prefer to be alone rather than interact with others. In a group, they often feel like they are being watched and judged by others.
3. How Common is Social Anxiety?
While social anxiety is a relatively common condition, it is often undiagnosed and underrated. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 12 percent of American adults have experienced a social anxiety disorder. It means that social anxiety is more common than conditions like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
4. Treatments For Social Anxiety
The good news for people suffering from social anxiety is that several effective treatments exist, including medication and therapy. Regarding medication, it is often recommended that people with social anxiety take the same drugs as those suffering from depression and anxiety.
a. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for social anxiety. CBT focuses on understanding how negative thoughts and beliefs can contribute to a person’s feelings of anxiety and stress.
b. Medication
The most common type of medication is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are a type of antidepressant that can help to reduce anxiety and improve mood. People can use other medicines to treat social anxiety, including beta-blockers and benzodiazepines.
5. What Should People Do?
If you think you might have social anxiety, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional. Experts can help you understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan. If you are having difficulty functioning in your everyday life, it may be necessary to seek treatment in a hospital or residential setting.
Conclusion
Social anxiety can be a debilitating condition, but it is also treatable. If you are struggling with social anxiety, seek help from a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan. Although it is difficult today, there is always a chance for tomorrow.
Hope Seed Support Center is a counseling center in Houston dedicated to helping people get better through therapy and consultation. We aim to provide help through the best therapist in Houston, ensuring people have access to high-quality mental health programs. Call our depression hotline today and learn more about how we can help.
