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Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder

Authors:
  • Michael Jubinville, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is treated with counseling. Medicines may or may not be needed. For some people, using both may work better. You will also learn how to control how you react to stress in social settings. Work with your care team and let them know about any changes right away. Treatment can be changed based on your needs.

If you have other health issues, such as other anxiety disorders, or problems with alcohol or drug use, they will need to be treated as well.

SAD is treated with:

Medications

Other treatments—therapy

References

  • Social anxiety disorder. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T115906/Social-anxiety-disorder. Updated September 21, 2018. Accessed February 26, 2019.
  • Social anxiety disorder: More than just shyness. National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/social-anxiety-disorder-more-than-just-shyness/index.shtml. Accessed February 26, 2019.
  • Social phobia. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/psychiatric-disorders/anxiety-and-stressor-related-disorders/social-phobia. Updated July 2018. Accessed February 26, 2019.

Contributors

  • Adrian Preda, MD
Last Updated:
2018-12-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.