Therapies For Social Anxiety Disorder

Being shy or nervous in social situations doesn’t necessarily point to social anxiety. It’s perfectly fine to feel anxious and nervous sometimes; going on a first date, getting interviewed for a job, or giving a public speech. So how do we know if we are suffering from social anxiety disorder?

Sufferers of social anxiety are extremely scared of social situations. Being humiliated and embarrassed is their biggest fear. The fear is so great that they will normally try and do anything to get out of a social situation.

If they have to face a social situation they feel absolutely terrified with thoughts of making a fool of themselves in front of everyone. This self-negative thinking increases anxiety and apprehension. When they come to face their fear, they might stutter, turn red, choke and feel utterly humiliated.

Physical anxiety symptoms such as sweating, shaking, trembling and a racing heart only worsen the experience. After a bad experience sufferers replay them over in their minds. A sufferer is going to feel really humiliated and avoid any kind of similar experience.

Social anxiety can be treated however with a number of different methods and therapies. Medication is not a cure for social anxiety disorder but it can help combined with therapy. The reason is because medication does not treat the root cause of anxiety. Doctors normally prescribe antidepressants, benzodiazepines and beta blockers for physical symptoms.

It’s important to be aware of the possible dangers and side effects of taking medication. Only consider taking medicine prescribed by a qualified doctor. There are those that rather not risk the dangers of medication. There are other alternatives to consider.

Therapies include hypnosis and CBT which can greatly reduce and even cure anxiety symptoms. Therapy helps a sufferer manage and even control oncoming symptoms of anxiety little by little. Anxiety and stress feeds itself in a vicious circle. Make sure to give yourself time to take a breather. Practicing breathing exercises will help you release unwanted tension and look at problems differently.

Playing some relaxing music can help you get into a relaxed state. Relax and drop your muscles as you breath in slowly. A slow stretch is a great way to loosen up and get you ready.

There are social anxiety books, audios and self-help courses that can be highly effective. Take the first steps in beating this disorder and start enjoying a social life. Go to the panic symptoms help blog and find out how to overcome social anxiety.