The Anxiety & Depression Association of America shares that Social Anxiety Disorder is the 2nd most commonly diagnosed anxiety disorder, affecting 15 million American adults. Social Anxiety is more than being shy or feeling a little nervous before a big presentation, it is something that can have a significant impact on the daily life of those experiencing it. The good news is that Social Anxiety can be easily treated!
What Is Social Anxiety?
Perhaps the most common marker of Social Anxiety is a fear and strong physical symptoms before being in social situations. This may lead to avoidance of activities that are important to daily life, including work or school. Other times a person will complete activities, but experience significant worry or stress during them. A person experiencing social anxiety might also find themselves worrying about events for weeks before they take place.
Physical symptoms of social anxiety often include:
- Blushing
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Heart Palpitations
- Chest Discomfort
- Shortness of Breath
Treatment for Social Anxiety
Therapy is an effective treatment for social anxiety in most cases. At Garrett Counseling, we have a few therapy techniques that we commonly use to support clients.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can be beneficial for social anxiety as it works to reframe thoughts and behaviors to lead to less feelings of anxiety and fear.
- Exposure Therapy: Exposure Therapy differs from traditional CBT in that it works to confront fears to help clients engage in activities they have been avoiding.
Our team wrote an article on how counseling can help with social anxiety, you can find that here.
Get Support Today
If you are looking for support to help you with social anxiety, our team provides in-person therapy at locations in Albertville, Huntsville, Jacksonville, and Jasper – as well as online therapy options. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your first appointment.