Social Phobia
By Brett and Robby
The Definition
Social anxiety is the fear of interaction with other people that brings on self consciousness, feelings of being negatively judged and evaluated, and, as a result, leads to avoidance.
Signs and Symptoms
Physical symptoms of anxiety, including, but not limited to: confusion, pounding heart, sweating, shaking, blushing, muscle tension, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
Signs
Symptoms
Afraid to talk to people you don’t know.
Being very anxious about being with other people and having a hard time talking to them
Worry for days or weeks before an event where other people will be.
IT CAN BE A MIND KILLER
Treatments
Initial treatment of social anxiety disorder is based on how bad your emotional and physical symptoms are and how able you are to function in daily activities. People who have social anxiety disorder often have depression also. They may also have alcohol or substance abuse problems.
It is possible to overcome the fears linked with social anxiety disorder. Working through fears with a specific type of therapy—cognitive-behavioral therapy that includes exposure therapy—may be the best approach for treating your anxiety. It is important to continue professional counseling even if you are taking medicines to reduce anxiety.
Links
SDSU Psychology Clinic 619-594-5134; 6363 Alvarado Ct., Suite 103
Gifford Clinic (UCSD) 619-299-3519; 140 Arbor Drive (Central San Diego)