Our therapists offer social anxiety therapy in Media, PA

Social Anxiety Disorder Therapy – Thriveworks, Media, PA, Delaware County, PA

Social anxiety is a disorder in which an individual experiences intense anxiety in one or more social situations for fear of being judged, negatively evaluated, or rejected. If you think you’re struggling with social anxiety disorder or you have been diagnosed, reach out to Thriveworks Media today for help. We can get you set up right away, and you can even meet with a provider as early as this week.

What Do People with Social Anxiety Disorder Worry About?

People with social anxiety disorder excessively worry about acting or appearing visibly anxious or being viewed as strangE or awkward; which is both embarrassing and humiliating to an individual with social anxiety disorder.

Due to their fear they often avoid social situations and if it cannot be avoided by the individual, the situation is endured with an excessive sense of fear and anxiety.

Causes of Social Anxiety Disorder

Although individuals suffering from social anxiety recognize that their fear is excessive, irrational, and unreasonable, people suffering from the disorder often feel powerless and helpless against their anxiety. It controls them thus rendering them powerless against it. Some anxiety is normal and a biological trait in all humans.

Signs of Social Anxiety Disorder

Many people with social anxiety disorder can experience a multitude of symptoms, both physical as well as behavioral. If you experience some of the following symptoms in one or more social situations you might be suffering from social anxiety disorder.

Physical Symptoms

1. Rapid heart rate
2. Nausea
3. Vomiting
4. Excessive sweating
5. Dizziness
6. Avoiding social situations
7. Shortness of Breath
8. Confusion/Mind going blank

Behavioral Symptoms

1. Trembling, having a shaky voice, or stuttering
2. Avoiding doing things or speaking to people out of fear of embarrassment
3. Avoiding situations where you might be the center of attention
4. Spending time after a social situation analyzing your performance and identifying flaws in your interactions
5. Self medicating to function in social situations

Getting Help for Social Anxiety Disorder

When the anxiety begins to affect your ability to function and is causing impairment in various areas of your life it might be time to consider consulting with a a therapist.

Untreated social anxiety disorder could result in panic attacks, low self esteem, poor social skills, poor and unsatisfying relationships, and it can have a negative effect on academic and occupational functioning. Typically when left untreated, it gets worse.

Treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder

Two common treatments used to help improve social anxiety are psychotherapy and medication management. They can be administered together and or separately.

The most common treatment used to treat social anxiety is CBT, which stands for cognitive behavior therapy. CBT is an evidence based treatment method proven to show results. It will teach you the connection between your thoughts, feelings, physical sensations, and behaviors. During CBT treatment for social anxiety patients reframe negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Patients also must make changes in their behavior. Treatment will also teach you coping skills to better manage the overwhelming emotions and thoughts so they do not interfere with functioning.

Medication can also be prescribed by a psychiatrist to target the symptoms associated with performance anxiety. Three types of medication prescribed for social anxiety are anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, and beta blockers.

Scheduling Social Anxiety Disorder Counseling at Thriveworks Media

Thriveworks is here to help with Social Anxiety. At Thriveworks, we have licensed Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, and Licensed clinical Social Workers that are trained and ready to help you to overcome your social anxiety.

At Thriveworks, new clients can typically meet with a provider within the week of scheduling. In addition, we offer evening and weekend sessions, and we accept most major insurances. Call 610-808-9923 to schedule appointment.