Social Anxiety

The approach to treating a social anxiety disorder depends on the impact it has on your daily life. Common treatments include talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy can be highly effective for individuals, as it helps identify and change negative intrusive thoughts, while helping to develop skills, build confidence, and learned behavior to best adapt in social settings.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective form of therapy for anxiety, and it can be done in one-on-one sessions or group settings.

Overcome social anxiety to present in front of your peers and superiors without fear of being judged or criticised.

CBT often involves exposure therapy, in which the client gradually confronts the fearful situation in increments. It is a step-by-step approach, helping people to feel more comfortable over time, where they start with minimal exposure and gradually to be more independent in a full exposure context.

Role-playing and relaxation exercises can also complement exposure therapy.

Medication may be prescribed by your family doctor to treat anxiety.

Medication

The Mayo Clinic listed several medications that have proven to treat social anxiety effectively.

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), are the most common and first choice for many physicians. Paxil and Zoloft are common brands. Serotonin and Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) such as Effexor XR is another common prescription.

To minimize side effects, doctors typically start with a low dose and gradually increase it. As a result, it may take several weeks or months to notice improvements.

Make a Commitment

It is important not to get discouraged if treatment doesn’t work immediately. It can take weeks or even months to see improvement with both therapy and finding the right medication. How quickly one sees results would depend on one’s commitment to making life better.

For some people, social anxiety symptoms decrease over time, allowing them to stop medication. Others, on the other hand, may need to continue for a longer term to prevent reoccurrence.

To maximize the benefits, we encourage you to persevere with the therapy sessions and medication prescribed, and find the courage to face uncomfortable social situations gradually If you are prescribed medication, continue to take it, but notify your doctor if you experience any discomfort.

Are you ready to change your life?

CBT and exposure therapy can help people who are struggling with social anxiety disorder.

If you are thinking of doing something about your social anxiety, we totally get that it is tough for you to take the first step. Know that we are warm and welcoming, and we will accept you as you are. We know how much it has taken for you to make the decision to get help. We are here for you.

Call us tat 604-484-2737 o book a 15-minute free consultation today with one of our counsellors who treat social anxiety.

Or Book Online at your convenience with any of the following counsellors.