Explore Our Treatment Programs
At South Coast Behavioral Health, we understand the impact social anxiety can have on someone’s life. Our Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) treatment services focus on the individual, ensuring a unique path to recovery suited to the needs of each client.
After filling out this form, our admissions team will contact you at the number provided.
"*" indicates required fields
South Coast Behavioral Health is a safe and reliable source of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) treatment for all.
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), commonly known as social phobia, is a prevalent mental health issue marked by a strong apprehension of social situations. People with this condition feel anxiety about being evaluated or examined by others, which results in them shying away from social gatherings and events. It is crucial for individuals affected by Social Anxiety Disorder and their loved ones to comprehend what the disorder entails, its signs, and the various treatment options available. In this section, we will explore what Social Anxiety Disorder is, along with the therapies and medications available for effective treatment. We will also provide insights into the cause of Social Anxiety Disorder and share helpful strategies for managing this condition.
People with social anxiety disorder struggle with a fear of situations where they may be judged or watched closely by others—a condition that can have a lasting impact on how they navigate daily life and relationships while also affecting work performance and overall wellbeing. Symptoms often include excessive self-consciousness, blushing, sweating, and difficulty speaking in social settings. The level of fear felt in these situations is greater than the actual danger presented. For this reason, it’s important for those affected to get the help and support they need to know how to deal with anxiety in social situations.
People with social anxiety disorder (SAD) may find it challenging to navigate life as they tend to steer clear of social gatherings that provoke feelings of unease and worry. This inclination can impede their ability to cultivate personal connections, seize promising career prospects, while also diminishing their overall sense of comfort in daily life. Common signs like blushing, sweating, and a racing heartbeat often surface during encounters, heightening the sense of apprehension in mundane tasks. If left unaddressed, individuals grappling with SAD may find themselves retreating further into seclusion and encountering a susceptibility toward other mental health concerns.
Social Anxiety Disorder is a condition that emerges from a blend of different elements in an individual’s present life situation and past experiences. While the precise origins of Social Anxiety Disorder are not fully understood yet by researchers and experts in the field, studies have pointed towards the involvement of predispositions as well as environmental triggers as major contributors in shaping its onset. Gaining an understanding of these interplaying factors can shed light on the ways in which anxiety in social situations presents itself and how it can be effectively addressed through appropriate interventions.
Social Anxiety Disorder is often influenced by certain genetic factors – family background plays a significant role in its development. Studies suggest that having a parent with SAD can increase the chances of experiencing the disorder by around 30% to 40%. Researchers have pinpointed genetic markers like variations in the SLCGA4 gene that impact serotonin transport, a crucial neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood. This can affect brain function and emotional reactions, potentially making certain individuals more prone to anxiety in social situations.
Childhood experiences and external factors play a role in shaping Social Anxiety Disorder development. Events like bullying or abuse that instill long-lasting fear and unease in social settings, as well as overly protective parenting, can cause children to feel insecure and anxious. Furthermore, stressful life events, like the loss of a person or major life changes, can worsen or initiate symptoms of SAD. The combination of these elements interacts with inherent genetic tendencies to influence how a person deals with anxiety in social situations.
Signs and symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, often leading to avoidance of social situations. Understanding the following social anxiety disorder symptoms is crucial for recognizing the disorder and seeking appropriate help:
We are open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days per year.
Diagnosing Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) involves an assessment carried out by a healthcare provider which entails exploring the persons medical background, symptoms and thoroughly understanding how anxiety affects their daily activities. A physical checkup may also be done in order to exclude ailments that may present similar symptoms as SAD. Self-assessment surveys and conversations about triggers can also assist in diagnosing the condition.
Healthcare professionals frequently refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) to verify a diagnosis. Important elements of an SAD diagnosis include fear of social situations, avoidance behaviors, and notable distress that impacts daily life. Self-assessment surveys and conversations about triggers can also assist in diagnosing the condition. The DSM-5 criteria for diagnosing Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) include the following:
Managing anxiety in social situations often includes a blend of personalized therapy and, on occasion, medication to suit the individual’s requirements. Social anxiety disorder treatment can notably lessen anxiety levels and enhance the quality of life, thus enabling people to participate more actively in social settings.
Medications can be used to help ease the symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD). Drugs like serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as paroxetine and sertraline are frequently prescribed and have been found to be effective in reducing anxiety levels among individuals with SAD. Alternative treatment options include serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and beta blockers that can assist in managing reactions like a rapid heartbeat in social situations. While medications can be helpful in alleviating symptoms of SAD, they are most effective when used alongside therapy.
The main psychotherapy method used to address Social Anxiety Disorder is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT involves recognizing and questioning thoughts and beliefs about social interactions and replacing them with more positive outlooks. One significant aspect of CBT is exposure therapy, where individuals are slowly introduced to feared situations under controlled conditions to help them gain confidence and lessen anxiety gradually over time. Group therapy can also be helpful as it offers a safe setting for honing social skills through practice sessions.
Although social anxiety disorder may be challenging and present obstacles in daily living, there are ways you can manage the condition to make your life easier. Here are some tips to cope with SAD:
Psychotherapy paired with medication is the most effective way to promote recovery. Examples include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, etc.
anxiety disorders
anxiety disorders
Borderline personality disorder historically has been viewed as challenging to treat.
anorexia
eating disorder
Anxiety disorders. Depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders. Disruptive behavior disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.
Seeking expert guidance for social anxiety disorder is crucial as it can offer valuable help and effective treatment choices that result in noticeable enhancements in handling symptoms and improving overall mental stability.
Don’t allow social anxiety to limit you any further. South Coast Behavioral Health has a team of mental health experts who can guide you step by step. Contact us today to explore our tailored social anxiety disorder programs that can assist you in conquering your fears and living a more satisfying life.
We provide male-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Irvine, CA.
We provide female-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Huntington Beach, CA.
We provide male-specific treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our residential treatment center in Costa Mesa, CA.
We provide comprehensive care for those with primary addiction, primary mental health, and dual diagnoses within our PHP and IOP treatment facility in Newport Beach, CA.
We provide comprehensive care for those with addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders within our inpatient and outpatient treatment center in Oklahoma City, OK.
Our treatment centers in California and Oklahoma offer a wide range of services and dedicated addiction specialists who will help you begin your journey. We believe in empowering real people to get real, lasting results in recovery. Contact us today to get started!
