The Anxiety and Depression Association of America estimates that 16.1 million adults in the U.S. suffer from Major Depressive Disorder each year. That is roughly 6.7 percent of the population.
Depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for those aged 15 to around 45 years of age. When your mental health is bad it can have a devastating impact on your quality of life and prevent you from completing even the most basic daily tasks.
But what can be done about it? How can you restore the balance in your life and improve your quality of life?
Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an intense fear of being judged, negatively perceived, or rejected in a social setting. Individuals with this disorder may also fear appearing or acting visibly anxious or being perceived as stupid, awkward, or boring.1
People with social anxiety disorder may avoid social activities and often experience significant anxiety and distress when they cannot avoid social activities. They may also experience physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, nausea, sweating, and panic attacks. These individuals often feel powerless over the anxiety they feel.1
Social anxiety disorder can create several challenges for those who have it. For example, they may decline job opportunities that involve interacting with new people or avoid going out with friends.1
Sometimes, the symptoms are so extreme that they significantly interfere with daily routines, performance at work, and social interactions. Those with social anxiety disorder are also at an increased risk for developing major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorders.1
Social anxiety disorder is different from everyday shyness and usually includes fear, anxiety, and avoidance to the extent that it interferes with relationships, routine, work, school, and other activities. Symptoms of social anxiety disorder include emotional and behavioral symptoms and physical symptoms.5
Children may exhibit anxiety-related to interacting with adults or peers by crying, having temper tantrums, clinging to parents, or refusing to speak in social situations. 5
Performance-related social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense fear and anxiety during speaking or performing publicly. This fear and anxiety do not exist in other general social situations.5
Physical symptoms that accompany social anxiety disorder may include: 5
If social anxiety disorder is not treated, it can lead to various issues regarding work, school, relationships, or daily activities. These negative impacts can include: 5
Other mental health disorders often occur alongside social anxiety disorder, particularly major depressive disorder and substance abuse problems. 5
CBT is considered the best treatment method and helps individuals identify their negative thought patterns and behaviors and alter them into positive ones. 7 This form of psychotherapy can also change behaviors and reactions associated with situations that trigger anxiety. 6
Exposure therapy is also helpful for people with social anxiety disorder. In this kind of therapy, the individual gradually works towards engaging in the situation they are afraid of with a therapist and in a safe environment. 6
Different medications can also help in managing the symptoms of social anxiety disorder. Medications used to help treat this disorder include ant-anxiety medications, antidepressants, and beta-blockers. 6
People who have social anxiety disorder usually avoid social situations that trigger feelings of anxiety. This avoidance can make the anxiety worse over time, even though it reduces the anxiety in that moment.8
Gradually increasing exposure to feared social situations, sometimes with the help of a therapist, can allow for a potentially positive experience with the situation. This positive experience can reduce the anxiety associated with that situation and boost confidence in the individual’s ability to overcome fear. 8
Alcohol and other substances may temporarily reduce anxiety short-term as a social lubricant. Unfortunately, they can make anxiety worse over time and lead to dependence or substance use disorders. 8
In addition to the healthy tips listed above, there are other ways to support yourself or a loved one who may struggle with social anxiety disorder. 9
Seeking information, including researching warning signs, learning about different treatment options, and keeping up with the current research, helps support yourself or a loved one struggling with social anxiety disorder. 9
If the effects of social anxiety disorder begin to cause problems in your life or the life of someone you love, such as avoidance of social situations at school, at work, with friends, or with family, it is time to seek help from a professional and get the necessary treatment. 9
If you’re struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to face it alone. First Light Recovery offers compassionate care, expert treatment, and a real-world approach to empower you.
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