Social Anxiety Therapy Near Me
Social Anxiety Therapy Near Me – Almost everyone has experienced occasional twinges of anxiety or nerves before entering a particularly stressful social situation—this is a normal part of being a human and is no cause for concern. However, social anxiety disorders are more severe and irrational versions of these feelings can make it nearly impossible for individuals to participate in social situations.
As you might imagine, this can become incredibly debilitating, as interactions as simple as asking for directions or ordering from a restaurant become triggers for episodes of insurmountable anxiety. Although individuals might know that their feelings are irrational or disproportionate, the effects of the anxiety are uncontrollable and often visceral. In such cases, one of the most effective ways to treat social anxiety disorders is to speak with a qualified counsellor. The counsellors at Horizon Plymouth are experienced in treating social anxiety disorders and are here to offer you help and support.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
As with other forms of anxiety disorders, the actual presentation of symptoms can vary greatly depending on the unique circumstances of the individual. However, one unifying factor is the disruption of daily life due to crippling feelings of anxiety. Often, social anxiety will have severe negative impacts on relationships and leave the victim feeling isolated and lonely—further exacerbating their symptoms. Some common symptoms that people with social anxiety might experience include:
- Debilitating fear of social interactions due to a fear of judgement or embarrassment
- Self-inflicted isolation due to avoidance of anxiety-producing situations
- Physiological symptoms when in social situations, including increased heart rate, sweating, and nausea
- Persistent muscle tension
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Inability to make eye contact when conversing
- “Shutting down” or mind going blank when addressed or put on the spot
- Lack of sleep, especially as a result of worrying about social interactions, either past or present
In some cases, individuals can also experience intense panic attacks when forced into social situations, and such episodes can be dangerous and may require medication to mitigate. Although there is no quick and easy way to definitively diagnose someone with social anxiety disorder, a doctor will likely review the symptoms and triggers of your anxiety in order to rule out other potential causes, such as medications or comorbid conditions.
How can counselling help?
Counselling is one of the best ways to help with social anxiety, and many people who seek professional help are able to make huge gains in dealing with and even overcoming their social anxiety. At Horizon Plymouth, our experienced counsellors are trained in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which works by helping individuals talk through their feelings and experiences in order to reframe their thoughts. CBT will help you learn to identify and reframe negative thoughts as they arise, reducing the amount of debilitating fear experienced as a result. Additionally, identifying triggers for episodes of anxiety and exploring the feelings behind your anxiety can help to identify a specific course for treatment as you investigate the origins of your social anxiety.
Although some people believe that social anxiety is a personal problem that must be dealt with alone, this could not be further from the truth. The struggles and effects of social anxiety can be crippling, but the condition is not uncommon, and you do not have to deal with it alone. The therapists at Horizon Plymouth are skilled at treating social anxiety disorders and can provide support and guidance to help you overcome your challenges and move forward in a healthy, productive manner. Help is available—if your life is being negatively impacted by social anxiety disorder, reach out to Horizon Plymouth today to schedule your initial consultation and embark on the journey to a healthier, happier you.