thoughtscape NP Psychiatry · Understanding mental health
Social anxiety
Wanting connection and feeling anxious around other people can exist at the same time. The goal of care is to understand what gets in your way.
New educational draft · Clinician and editorial review pending.
More than occasional nervousness
Social anxiety disorder involves persistent fear of being judged or scrutinized. It can affect conversations, meeting people, work situations or performing in front of others. Physical signs may include trembling, blushing, sweating, or a racing heart.
It differs from a preference for quiet or occasional shyness when fear and avoidance cause significant distress or limit daily life.
Source: NIMH — Social Anxiety Disorder: What You Need to Know
Understanding your pattern
An assessment looks at the situations that trigger anxiety, how long the pattern has lasted and its effect on your life. A clinician also considers other mental health concerns and physical or medication-related factors.
Source: NIMH — Social Anxiety Disorder: What You Need to Know
Ways treatment can help
CBT can help people examine fearful predictions and gradually approach situations they have been avoiding. Medication is another option for some people. The choice depends on individual needs and preferences; benefits and side effects should be discussed together.
Support from others can be useful, but a support group is not a substitute for an individualized treatment plan.
Source: NIMH — Social Anxiety Disorder: What You Need to Know
Make the first conversation easier
You might begin with one example: a meeting you avoided, a conversation you kept rehearsing, or an event you wanted to attend but could not. You do not need to describe every situation at once.
Questions to consider: What would I like to do with less anxiety? How would therapy approach this? What would a manageable first step look like? How will we decide whether the plan is helping?
A next step, when you are ready
Bring your questions.
Thoughtscape offers online adult psychiatric care in New York. An initial conversation can help clarify whether the practice fits your needs; specific therapy approaches may require a referral.
Make an appointmentAbout this information
For general education only. This information does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change medication without guidance from your prescriber. For an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.