Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder

Whether it's attending a networking event in downtown Atlanta or simply eating lunch with coworkers, some level of nervousness in social situations is expected. But when you have social anxiety disorder, it goes far beyond typical butterflies. Everyday activities can feel impossible when social interactions cause irrational levels of anxiety.

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder—sometimes called social phobia—is a type of anxiety disorder where social interactions trigger disproportionate levels of fear and anxiety. Left untreated, it can lead you to avoid triggering situations entirely, isolating yourself and impacting your relationships, work, and daily routines.

Unlike shyness, which is a personality trait, social anxiety is a diagnosable mental health condition. The key distinction lies in how disruptive the symptoms are to your daily life, the intensity of the fear, and how much avoidance behavior affects your functioning.

Recognizing Social Anxiety Symptoms

At Next Step Psychiatry, our team helps patients in Lilburn and throughout Gwinnett County identify symptoms across three categories:

Physical Symptoms

• Blushing and excessive sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Rapid heartbeat and chest pain
• Nausea and dizziness
• Shortness of breath

Emotional Symptoms

• Intense worry before, during, and after social situations
• Extreme self-consciousness and fear of embarrassment
• Persistent concern that others notice your nervousness
• Feeling like you need alcohol to face social situations

Behavioral Symptoms

• Avoiding social situations or blending into the background
• Difficulty speaking or speaking very quietly
• Missing work or school due to anxiety
• Rigid posture and avoiding eye contact

What Triggers Social Anxiety?

Common situations that may trigger symptoms include:

• Job interviews or work presentations
• Meeting new people at community events
• Making phone calls, especially in front of others
• Eating in public or using public restrooms
• Shopping or asking questions in front of others

What Causes Social Anxiety Disorder?

Like many mental health conditions, social anxiety arises from a combination of biological and environmental factors:

• Genetics: Social phobia tends to run in families, though the exact mechanism isn't fully understood.
• Brain structure: An overactive amygdala may heighten fear responses in social situations.
• Life experiences: Bullying, teasing, trauma, or humiliation can contribute to development of the disorder.
• Temperament: Naturally shy or withdrawn individuals may be at higher risk.

Treatment Options at Next Step Psychiatry

Most people respond well to treatment that includes therapy, medication, or both. Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C offer comprehensive treatment options at our Lilburn location:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is the most effective psychotherapy for social anxiety. Exposure-based CBT gradually helps you face feared situations while building confidence and coping skills.

Medication Management

SSRIs like Paxil and Zoloft, and SNRIs like Effexor, are FDA-approved treatments with good effectiveness and relatively low side effect profiles. We start with lower doses and adjust based on your response.

Comprehensive Treatment Plans

Many patients benefit from combining medication with therapy for optimal results. We also teach practical coping skills for managing symptoms in real-world situations.

Getting a Diagnosis

If you suspect you have social anxiety disorder, proper diagnosis is essential. At Next Step Psychiatry, our evaluation includes a thorough discussion of your symptoms, the situations that trigger them, and how they affect your daily functioning. We use DSM-5 criteria to provide a definitive diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.

Don't let social anxiety keep you from living fully in the vibrant Gwinnett County community. Whether it's participating in local events, advancing your career, or building meaningful relationships, effective treatment can help you regain confidence in social situations.