Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder involves an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations. It may cause physical symptoms, panic, and avoidance of activities such as speaking in public, attending classes, meeting people, or forming friendships.
About
At a certain point everyone starts to become more aware of how those around them perceive them. They begin to identify social norms and become aware of the possibility of embarrassment. These are typical changes that can lead to some anxieties. However, social anxiety disorder is more than shyness. It is when someone feels embarrassment, shame, or humiliation because they believe people are noticing them or judging them. Social anxiety is present when the anxiety leads to avoidance and suffering that gets in the way of school, friendships, and life.
Children, adolescents, and adults with this disorder may blush easily, tremble, experience panic, or even cry when the social situations make them uncomfortable. Sometimes social anxiety disorder just happens in a few social situations (e.g., public speaking) or it can affect almost all social situations. The anxiety can translate to painful social interactions or to extreme avoidance of attending classes, greeting people, and developing friendships.
Treatment
At The Anxiety Center we help children develop social confidence and real life skills that lead to social success. Cognitive behavioral therapy is often the best treatment to alleviate social anxiety disorder. Cognitive therapy helps challenge the misperceived expectations from others. Exposure therapy helps master and enjoy the social world. Assertion training helps the patient learn how to handle life’s inevitable awkward moments without having to dread them. We also incorporate social skills training in conversation, public speaking, dating, and conflict management so that your child will feel well prepared to manage life.
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Same-week assessments often available · In-network with most major insurance · Medicaid accepted