For most people, regular socialization is a key part of our day-to-day lives. In some cases, however, social situations can be a major source of anxiety. If social anxiety is a chronic issue, you may have what is known as social anxiety disorder (SAD).
SAD is a surprisingly common issue, with a worldwide prevalence of 5 to 10% and a lifetime prevalence of 8.4 to 15%. If you believe you may have social anxiety disorder, it is important to know what treatment options and support are available to you. Aliya Health Group is here to help. We provide anxiety disorder treatment for people from all walks of life and have helped countless others find a brighter future.
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a mental health condition that features intense fear of social situations. People with social anxiety disorder worry excessively about being scrutinized or judged by others. They also often fear embarrassment or humiliation.
This fear can be so severe that it interferes with daily life, such as work, school, and relationships. Social anxiety disorder is a common condition affecting an estimated 12.1% of American adults at some point in their lives. It typically begins in adolescence and can continue throughout a person’s life if left untreated.
Social anxiety can seep into many aspects of daily life. It can make even basic interactions a stressful experience. There are several ways that social anxiety can affect your day-to-day life, including:
It’s important to note that social anxiety exists on a spectrum. Some people experience mild anxiety in certain situations. Other people, on the other hand, can have more severe and pervasive symptoms that significantly impact their daily lives.
No one should have to wait to heal, which is why our specialists are available 24/7 to help guide you through the admissions process every step of the way.
The exact cause of social anxiety disorder is unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Ultimately, anyone can develop this condition, but knowing what factors are involved can help you be aware of your risk.
Social anxiety disorder can run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. However, researchers are not exactly sure how genes contribute to the development of the disorder. Generally, if you have a family history of anxiety disorders, you could be at risk of developing these issues yourself.
Negative life experiences, such as bullying, teasing, or rejection, can increase the risk of developing social anxiety disorder. This is particularly true if you are regularly subjected to these negative social interactions. Studies have shown that social media can contribute to mental health issues and social anxiety. Seeking out support from a trusted friend, family member, or support group can help you cope with these experiences.
Social anxiety disorder exists on a spectrum so that different people may experience different side effects and symptoms. That said, there are several social anxiety disorder symptoms that you may experience, including physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, getting help might be a smart thing to do. An anxiety recovery center can help you create an individualized recovery plan focused on reducing anxiety and building a happy, more confident life.
If you or a loved one is struggling with their mental health, our admissions team is available 24/7. Our compassionate and understanding team can help answer your mental health treatment questions and get you started on the path to recovery.
Deciding to seek trauma treatment can be intimidating. We are here to make this process as easy as possible. Reach out to us today to learn more about how our treatment centers can help!
There is no specific social anxiety disorder test used to diagnose this condition. Instead, a mental health professional will likely use a combination of methods to reach a diagnosis. They may engage in a variety of different testing methods, including:
The diagnostic criteria for social anxiety disorder are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be diagnosed with social anxiety disorder, you must meet several criteria, including:
If you are concerned that you may have social anxiety disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Although social anxiety disorder can be debilitating, it is important to understand that this is a highly treatable condition. There are two main approaches to treatment: medication and psychotherapy.
Antidepressants can be helpful in reducing symptoms of social anxiety disorder. The most commonly used are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help regulate mood and anxiety.
These medications work by blocking the effects of adrenaline and can be helpful for managing physical symptoms of anxiety. For example, a racing heart or sweating, which can commonly occur in social situations.
This is often the first-line treatment for social anxiety disorder. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, involves working with a mental health professional. They will help you learn how to identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to your anxiety.
Some of the most effective include:
Each therapy has its own strengths, and the choice of therapy can depend on the individual’s specific needs, preferences, and the therapist’s expertise. It’s often beneficial to work with a mental health professional like those at Aliya Health Group to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
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In addition to therapy and medications, there are several things you can do on your own to better cope with your anxiety. Some self-help strategies that you can use to manage social anxiety disorder include:
Implementing these strategies can help manage social anxiety more effectively. It’s often a gradual process, and progress might come slowly, but persistence and practice can lead to significant improvement.
Aliya Health Group accepts most major health insurance providers on both a national and local level. Some of the health insurance providers we work include:
If you are looking for professional treatment for social anxiety disorder or any other anxiety issues, we are here to help. Our approach to treatment is comprehensive, meaning we offer both evidence-based and holistic options. Each treatment plan for anxiety is individualized to the needs of each client.
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer all your treatment questions and help you understand your options. Reach out to us to request an appointment and to learn more about how to start your recovery as soon as today.
Before entering outpatient treatment for substance abuse, most people have a long list of questions and concerns. To help you gain a better understanding of what to expect during outpatient programs, we have compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions.
Yes, our rehabilitation facilities have designated smoking areas available. However, kindly note that all cigarettes brought into the facility must be in unopened packs or cartons. The same rule applies to any cigarettes sent or brought by family or friends. Our staff will be more than happy to provide you with additional details regarding these guidelines during the admission process.
Yes, in most cases, we can offer repayment options tailored to your unique circumstances. For more details regarding personal repayment options, we recommend reaching out to our admissions team. They’ll be more than happy to assist you.
We accept all major insurance plans at our treatment locations. To learn more about insurance and treatment cost, contact our admissions team or fill out our secure insurance verification form.
Yes, we provide integrative dual diagnostics alongside a wide array of treatment modalities. Our core objective revolves around tackling addiction, while simultaneously addressing the underlying factors that contribute to substance use disorders. Our mission is to deliver effective and holistic care that encompasses both symptom management and the exploration of root causes of addiction.
In terms of cost, outpatient treatment is typically more affordable than inpatient options which require round-the-clock medical supervision. This makes it a viable solution for individuals who may be deterred from seeking help due to financial constraints.
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