Is Social Anxiety Disorder Real?
Not long ago there was a theoretical debate about whether or not social anxiety disorder was a real condition. The argument against it simply stated that this is a condition that can be created by not providing children with the necessary social skills and self confidence needed to be an active part of the community. Naturally, the opposite argument stated that it’s a condition caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain which impacts one’s ability to relate comfortably in social situations. Many experts feel that there is a little bit of truth to both statements but that the disorder is very real.
Social anxiety disorder is more than just discomfort in social settings. It is actually a fear of situations that require one to relate to and be involved in the social world around them. Sufferers will avoid social settings to the degree that they will not participate in family holidays, sports, and other activities which even seem enjoyable to them. Working in a structure that requires interaction can be a devastating problem for people with this condition, regardless of where it came from. The work environment often poses issues that prevent sufferers from getting promotions, raises, or even using their full potential.
For those who do suffer with the condition it doesn’t matter where it came from. What matters is seeking treatment and developing a method of dealing and coping that can turn the unthinkable into a tolerable if not enjoyable experience. This most often requires the help of a professional.
There are different degrees of social anxiety disorder. Severe conditions can be treated but are often unlikely to be treated because even the thought of seeking treatment can be too much for the patient to face without intense fear. Just like some people are afraid of spiders or fire, these patients are terrified of interacting with people.
If the condition is to be treated the patient should be fully aware of their options. For some patients, medication has proven to be quite effective. For other patients, the condition is actually treated through a process of evaluated and reestablishing their basic belief system. Each variable treatment option can be more successful when combined with other treatment options. That means treating medicated patients with therapeutic counseling and often vice versa. Sometimes the patient responds well to only one type of treatment, but experts state that if you never treat the cause of social anxiety disorder you can never truly alleviate the condition from the patient.
*Photo Credit – VinÃcius Sgarbe
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