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Social Anxiety Disorder: Care Instructions

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Overview

Social anxiety disorder causes a fear of social situations. It is also called social phobia. People with this condition have trouble talking or meeting with people. They may have a hard time performing in front of others. They worry that they will embarrass themselves. And they worry that others will judge them and think poorly of them. Social anxiety disorder is not the same as being shy. It is not the same as a normal nervous reaction to public speaking. It causes a much higher level of fear. It often starts days or weeks before an event.

This condition often causes symptoms such as blushing, sweating, shakiness, fast heartbeat, and trouble thinking. It can make you feel anxious, sad, cranky, or grumpy. It may even cause you to withdraw from social settings. This can lead you to miss work or school.

Social anxiety disorder can be treated with medicine and counseling.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

  • Find a counselor you like and trust. Talk openly and honestly about your problems.
  • Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you have any problems with your medicine. When you feel good, you may think you do not need your medicine, but it is important to keep taking it.
  • You may be able to reduce your anxiety at home by practicing a healthy lifestyle.
    • Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.
    • Go to bed at nearly the same time. And keep your room quiet and dark. This will reduce distractions and help you get good sleep.
    • Avoid food and drinks that contain caffeine, such as coffee or energy drinks. Caffeine may make your anxiety worse.
    • Try some relaxation exercises. Certain breathing exercises and muscle relaxation exercises may help reduce anxiety.
  • Discuss the cause of your fears with a good friend or family member. Or join a support group for people with problems like yours.
  • Trust that you can improve your way of coping with these fears.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

  • Someone you know is about to attempt or is attempting suicide.
  • You feel you cannot stop from hurting yourself or someone else.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

  • Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
  • Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
  • Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • A person with a phobia mentions suicide. If the person has a specific plan and a way to carry it out, you or someone you trust should stay with them until you get help.
  • Anxiety or fear upsets your daily activities.
  • Sudden, severe attacks of fear or anxiety with physical symptoms (shaking, sweating) seem to occur for no reason.
  • You start to use drugs or drink alcohol heavily.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • You do not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter C426 in the search box to learn more about "Social Anxiety Disorder: Care Instructions".

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.