It is estimated that nearly 15 million adults in the United States suffer from social anxiety disorder. If you think you or a loved one suffer from social anxiety disorder, you should contact your provider about being tested and speak to a local physician.

Your physician will ask you to describe your symptoms, your signs, and the frequency of both in specific situations. For a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, you must meet specific criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. According to the Mayo Clinic, these criteria include the following:

• A persistent fear of social situations
• A fear that you may embarrass or humiliate yourself
• Social situations causing great anxiety
• Recognition that your anxiety level is excessive for the situation
• Avoidance of social situations or any circumstance that causes you additional anxiety

The two most effective treatments for social anxiety disorder include medications and a form of psychotherapy called cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps nearly 75 percent of people who suffer from social anxiety. This therapy analyzes your own thoughts on how to behave or react in social situations. This involves changing the way that you think in order to see the social situation in a positive light. Cognitive behavior therapy can also include exposure therapy. During this therapy, you are exposed to situations that you fear the most. This helps you ultimately develop the confidence you need to face challenging situations.

Some common medications used to treat social anxiety disorder include Paroxetine (Paxil), Sertraline (Zoloft), Fluvoxamine (Luvox), and Fluoxetine (Prozac). Your doctor may also combine some other antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and beta-blockers to help in your treatment.

Social anxiety disorder is not something that should be ignored. For more information, contact Solace Counseling. We offer a variety of treatment options, including group and family counseling. Look for us on Facebook and Twitter.