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Cures for Social Anxiety

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an extreme fear of social interactions. It can prevent you from performing simple tasks in public, such as eating, and makes being around large groups of people impossible. While anyone may be nervous entering a social situation, people with social anxiety disorder will find their lives disrupted by the disorder.

  1. Psychotherapy

    • The most common forms of treatment for social anxiety are psychotherapy and medication. According to the Mayo Clinic, cognitive behavioral therapy can reduce symptoms in up to 75 percent of people with the disorder. The therapist will help the person understand the root of the anxiety and help him develop a plan that includes positive self-image, relaxation techniques and coping strategies. In some forms of therapy, you may also undergo exposure therapy where you identify which situations frighten you the most and then work your way up to putting yourself in these types of social interactions.

    Medication

    • The first line of medication to treat social anxiety disorder is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Paxil, Zoloft and Prozac. These are generally better tolerated and present less side effects than other medications. Usually, your doctor will start with a low dose, increasing the amount over a period of time. Most often, it will take up to three months for SSRIs to improve symptoms of social anxiety. If the SSRIs fail to take care of your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe a different type of antidepressant or benzodiazepine, an anti-anxiety drug that works quickly but can become habit-forming.

    Home Remedies

    • Though you will most often need the help of a doctor to overcome social anxiety, there are some steps you can try at home. It is important to identify which activities cause you the most anxiety and then slowly try to practice them. These activities could include making eye contact with a stranger, complimenting someone, eating in public or initiating plans with a friend. It is important not to throw yourself into these situations, but prepare for what makes you nervous by practicing the conversation beforehand, engaging in relaxation techniques, setting goals and working on stress management.

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