Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment in San Diego
What is social anxiety disorder?
Social Anxiety Disorder is more than just shyness or being introverted. It’s, in fact, a persistent and intense fear of social interactions or performance situations. This fear is often accompanied by overwhelming self-consciousness. Those with Social Anxiety Disorder tend to anticipate embarrassment, humiliation, or criticism, which can, therefore, make it difficult to engage in even the most routine social interactions. As a result, these intense feelings of anxiety may lead individuals to avoid social situations altogether. Consequently, this avoidance can make it incredibly hard to build and maintain meaningful relationships.
Approximately 15 million adults in the U.S. suffer from social anxiety disorder, with many also experiencing co-occurring conditions like depression, generalized anxiety disorder, or substance use disorders.
Reclaim your confidence today. Call Park Mental Health in San Diego to begin your journey toward overcoming social anxiety disorder.
Warning signs of social anxiety disorder
Recognizing the signs of social anxiety disorder is a crucial first step in seeking help. By identifying emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms, you can better understand your struggles and take action. Early recognition allows you to seek a proper diagnosis, ensuring you receive the support and treatment you deserve. At Park Mental Health, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, helping you overcome social anxiety and regain your confidence.
Mental symptoms of social anxiety disorder:
- Intense fear
- Self-consciousness
- Excessive worry
- Negative thoughts
- Overthinking
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Fear of judgement
- Low self-esteem
- Embarrassment
- Fear of embarrassment
- Social dread
- Perfectionism
Physical signs of social anxiety disorder:
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Rapid heartbeat
- Blushing
- Dry mouth
- Shaky hands
- Stomach issues
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Muscle tension
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
The types of social anxiety disorders
There are several variations of Social Anxiety Disorder, each affecting individuals in different ways. For example, some may experience anxiety in specific situations, such as public speaking, while others may feel intense discomfort in all social interactions. At Park Mental Health, we understand these differences and provide personalized treatment plans. By combining therapy, medication, and coping strategies, we aim to help you manage symptoms and regain confidence. Our compassionate team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring that you receive the most appropriate care tailored to your unique needs.
Generalized social anxiety disorder
Generalized Social Anxiety Disorder involves a pervasive fear of social situations, affecting nearly every interaction with others. Individuals may feel anxious in various settings, such as small talk, group activities, or one-on-one interactions. Consequently, this fear can interfere with daily tasks, including work meetings, school, or meeting new people. Additionally, the constant worry about being judged or criticized often leads to heightened self-consciousness, making it difficult to engage in even routine social interactions. Over time, these anxieties can increase avoidance behaviors, which may result in isolation and hinder personal or professional growth.
Performance-only social anxiety
Performance-Only Social Anxiety is limited to specific situations where individuals must perform in front of others. Anxiety arises primarily during activities like public speaking, giving speeches, or performing in a play or musical. The underlying fear is often related to being judged or evaluated by others, leading to intense self-consciousness. These individuals may experience significant distress or physical symptoms, such as sweating or trembling, during these moments. However, outside of these performance-related situations, their anxiety may be minimal or nonexistent. Over time, this type of social anxiety can prevent individuals from participating in certain activities or seizing opportunities that involve public exposure.
Situational social anxiety
Situational anxiety is triggered by specific social scenarios, such as attending parties, eating in public, or meeting new people. Unlike generalized social anxiety disorder, individuals with situational anxiety only experience symptoms in particular situations. While they may navigate other social interactions without issue, certain events or environments can evoke overwhelming anxiety. This specific trigger can cause significant distress, leading to avoidance behaviors that interfere with personal and professional life. For those affected, managing or overcoming this anxiety involves addressing these specific triggers while building confidence in more general social situations.
Comorbid social anxiety
Comorbid social anxiety disorder occurs alongside other mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder, depression, or substance use disorders. The presence of multiple conditions can make both diagnosis and treatment more complex. Consequently, individuals may require an integrated, tailored treatment plan that addresses all underlying concerns for effective recovery. Managing these co-occurring conditions is crucial, as treating only one aspect of the disorder may not fully alleviate symptoms. By focusing on a comprehensive approach, individuals can achieve better overall mental health and a more sustainable improvement in their social anxiety.
How we treat social anxiety disorders
At Park Mental Health, we take a compassionate and individualized approach to treating social anxiety disorder. We understand that each person’s experience with social anxiety disorder is unique. Therefore, we work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that suits your specific needs. Ultimately, our goal is to help you regain control of your social life. In doing so, we aim to build the confidence you need to thrive in social settings and improve your overall well-being.
Therapeutic approaches
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a cornerstone of treatment for social anxiety disorder. Specifically, this evidence-based therapy helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. By challenging irrational thoughts and beliefs, CBT enables you to develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with social situations. As a result, it empowers you to navigate social interactions with greater ease and confidence. Ultimately, CBT is an effective tool in managing social anxiety disorder and fostering long-term mental well-being.
Exposure therapy
Exposure therapy involves gradual and controlled exposure to feared social situations. Initially, it starts with less challenging scenarios and progressively works up to more difficult ones. This step-by-step process helps desensitize individuals to anxiety triggers and, over time, reduces avoidance behaviors. As a result, exposure therapy fosters increased comfort and confidence in social settings. Ultimately, it plays a crucial role in helping individuals manage social anxiety disorder and improve their social functioning.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
ACT helps individuals embrace the discomfort that comes with social anxiety. Instead of avoiding anxiety-provoking situations, it encourages patients to accept their anxiety and act according to their personal values, regardless of the fear they may feel. By focusing on what truly matters to them, individuals can gradually build resilience and reduce the impact of social anxiety on their daily lives. Through this approach, ACT empowers individuals to engage with life more fully, leading to increased emotional well-being and improved social interactions over time.
Medication management
For some individuals, medication can be an effective part of the treatment process. Prescription medications, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), may be used to manage symptoms of social anxiety disorder. Our team of professionals will work closely with you to determine the right medication, carefully monitoring its effects to ensure optimal results. By integrating medication with therapy, we can create a well-rounded approach that addresses both the emotional and physical aspects of social anxiety. This combined treatment strategy can lead to significant improvements in your social interactions and overall well-being.
Other treatments for social anxiety disorder treatment
Group therapy
Lifestyle adjustments
Treatment for co-occurring conditions
Take the first step toward relief from anxiety disorder
Your most frequently asked questions, answered.
What areas do you cover?
Park Mental Health Treatment covers the San Diego, California area. If you are unsure of whether you are near our facility, please either submit an online form or alternatively contact a member of our team today on 866-420-2524.
Do you provide outpatient care?
Yes, Park Mental Health Treatment has the facilities to cater for outpatient care. Alternatively, if you require inpatient care, we also have partnerships with facilities around the San Diego, CA area that can cater for inpatient therapies.
How do I get in contact?
To contact a member of our team, either complete an online form or call us directly on 866-420-2524.