Social Phobia

Social phobia is very difficult to diagnose. You may have it for years before you realize you even have it. Once you do realize, it is very important that you seek help immediately.

Generally, people with social anxiety know that they are being irrational, but they cannot stop their thoughts or feelings. Changing their thoughts is a major part of their recovery.

Signs & Symptoms

Some of these include sweating, blushing, trembling, nausea and difficulty talking. Many situations cause anxious moments. These include standing in a line or fearing using the telephone to speak to someone.

When you see someone you know on the street, you may pretend to ignore them. "What do I say?" Eating in a public place can pose a huge challenge. "Why are they staring at me?" Having to use a public washroom is another concern.

Is There Hope? YES!

The illness is treatable. It will require work, which will make you feel uncomfortable, but it can and must be done. Think of the greatest prize at the end of treatment - gaining freedom and your life back.

Treatment for social phobia is generally very successful. It requires counseling or medication (or both). Treatment depends on how severe the problem is and if you can function daily.

One major part to work on is changing thinking patterns. This will play a huge part in getting better. The idea is to lose the fear and slowly desensitize yourself. Desensitization is important in any phobia.

The outcome is very bright though, so don't despair. Like anything, practice, practice, practice. You can do it, and you will get well. There are other things that you can also do.

Cut back on caffeine. Learn proper breathing, use relaxation tapes, exercise. Even using alternative remedies may be worth exploring, if you don't like drugs or its side effects.

No matter how bad you're feeling, please be patient. There is hope. Set small goals and work your way up. You can absolutely do this!

Social Anxiety and Social Phobia in Youth Increasingly acknowledged as debilitating conditions for youth, social anxiety and social phobia have received considerable study in recent years. This concise volume was designed to provide therapists and students with a state-of-the-art overview that offers the evidence-based knowledge that will enhance understanding of this problem.

Painfully Shy How to Overcome Social Anxiety and Reclaim Your Life (Paperback (Trade Paper)) Painfully Shy How to Overcome Social Anxiety and Reclaim Your Life Question Do you feel shy and self-conscious in social situations Are you plagued with self-doubts about how you come across to others Do you feel physically sick with worry about certain situations that involve interacting with others Do you make excuses, or even lie to avoid the social situations you dread Do you make important decisions based on whether youll have to participate in groups or speak in front of others If you answered yes to any of these questions, youre not alone. Millions of people experience social anxiety of painful shyness to such a degree that it disrupts their daily lives. In fact, as many as one out of every eight Americans will at some point suffer from whats called social anxiety disorder, or social phobia. Social anxiety disorder is a real problem. But fortunately, its also one that can be overcome. Drs. Barbara and Greg Markway, psychologists and experts in the field, coach you every step of the way in this warm, easy-to-read, and inspiring book. Youll learn how social anxiety disorder develops, how it affects all aspects of your life, and most importantly, how to chart your course to recovery. Painfully Shy guides readers in the use of therapies and techniques for mastering social anxiety and shyness, offers counsel in the use of herbal and pharmacological therapy, and outlines important questions for readers doctors.

Go to Social Anxiety Agoraphobia

Return from this Social Phobia page to the Panic And Agoraphobia home page.