Have you ever questioned if there was any truth to social anxiety therapy and does it work?

Social anxiety therapy typically falls into one of two camps: talk therapy and medication. Both have been shown to be effective in the treatment of social anxiety disorder, and in some cases, patients may undergo both forms of treatment simultaneously to receive optimal results. 

Given the complex nature of social anxiety disorder and its causes, the appropriate treatment for each case will vary from patient to patient, so it is crucial that those who struggle with social anxiety disorder seek out the guidance of a trained professional who can point them in the right direction.

Dealing With Social Anxiety With Talk Therapy

Talk therapy involves speaking with a trained professional about your condition. Talk therapy typically involves different treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Exposure Therapy.  A full course of therapy typically lasts anywhere from 12 to 16 sessions, although the length of treatment may be extended depending on the severity of an individual's condition.

With talk therapy, trained professionals help those who struggle with social anxiety disorder to reframe and reassess the negative thought patterns that hold them prisoner. 

Anxiety disorders are fueled by negative, catastrophizing thoughts, and by challenging these thoughts when they occur, patients begin to rewire their brains to view previously threatening stimuli (such as a fear of social situations) as harmless. 

Additionally, Exposure Therapy helps patients get comfortable with uncomfortable situations by gradually exposing them to their fears, little by little. While this form of treatment is highly effective in the treatment of social anxiety disorder, it must be done with care, as too much negative stimulus at once can have the opposite effect and reinforce an individual's anxiety.

Dealing With Social Anxiety With Medication Therapy 

Although medication is still viewed with skepticism and fear by many, studies have overwhelmingly shown that modern medical therapies for anxiety disorders are both safe and effective.  Antidepressant drugs, despite their name, are often the first line of pharmacological therapy for anxiety disorders, and for patients who struggle with both anxiety and depression, they may be an ideal choice of treatment. 

While no medication is free of side effects, many patients who begin a course of antidepressants in order to treat their anxiety find that whatever benefits they receive from medication greatly outweigh the negatives.

Not all medication may be appropriate for you, they must be taken only as directed under the supervision of a doctor. 

Conclusion

Roughly 6.8% of the US population are affected with social anxiety disorder.  Treatment is available through counseling and can fully be treated through cognitive behavioral therapy.  Studies show 85% of participants drastically improve or recover with cognitive behavioral therapy.  

If you need help, please call (719) 345-2424.

Source:  Psycom