What is Social anxiety?

Social Anxiety occurs when someone has intense fear of being embarrassed in front of other people.

Most people who develop Social Anxiety, do so during adolescence.

Many people with Social Anxiety experience other conditions like depression.

Many people begin avoiding situations involving people, or they withstand intense anxiety while surrounded by others.

Treatment

Treatment can be scary, because it involves another person.

Social Anxiety usually doesn’t require hospitalization, however higher levels like Partial Hospitalization Programs or Intensive Outpatient Programs can be helpful.

The prognosis for Social Anxiety can be very good.

The Role of Therapy

Psychotherapy is an important part of treatment when used in conjunction with medications.

Therapy modalities include CBT, specifically exposure therapy involving other people. While this can sound scary, it is extremely effective, and a good therapist will move at your pace.

In terms of every day life, increasing awareness of your body and slowly reintroducing yourself to feared situations will greatly improve functioning.