Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a common anxiety disorder that affects many people. People with social anxiety have excessive and unreasonable fears before and during different social situations. With a social anxiety disorder, normal, everyday interactions may cause feelings of anxiety, nervousness, self-consciousness and embarrassment. Individuals who suffer from social phobia may avoid certain social situations because of the overwhelming fear and anxiety that these situations may cause. The anxiety and emotional discomfort caused by a social anxiety disorder may interfere with daily routines, relationships, school or employment.
Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder
Symptoms of social anxiety disorder may begin in childhood and can affect people both emotionally and physically. People with social anxiety disorders feel very nervous and anxious when they are around other people and may find it difficult to hold a conversation. They may worry for days or weeks in advance about events that they may have to interact with other people. Individuals suffering from social phobia may also have an emotional fear of being judged, watched or embarrassed, which may lead to additional symptoms such as:
- Profuse sweating
- Blushing
- Shaking
- Confusion
- Nausea/upset stomach
- Diarrhea
Causes of Social Anxiety Disorder
Like other mental health conditions, the cause of social anxiety disorder is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic, environmental and psychological factors. Social anxiety disorders may run in families, however it is also believed that the link may not only be genetic, but possibly learned behavior passed on from a parent to a child. Abnormalities in the release of the natural brain chemical,serotonin, may also play a role in the development of a social anxiety disorder. Individuals with a history of physical or sexual abuse may be at a higher risk for developing a social anxiety disorder.
Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Psychotherapy in the form of cognitive behavior therapy is the most effective treatment for social anxiety because it guides patients to have more rational thoughts about social situations. Exposure therapy and relaxation techniques may also be used to treat individuals with social anxiety disorder. In severe cases, antianxiety or antidepressant medication may be prescribed to treat patients who do not respond to therapy alone. Individuals with social phobias may also benefit from practicing relaxation techniques on their own as well as keeping a journal to track their progress. Use of alcohol and other drugs should be avoided as these substances may cause anxiety to worsen.
Additional Resources
Featured Services
Medication
Management
Psychiatric medications are invaluable in achieving recovery from mental illness and safe treatment of symptoms. Our practice offers comprehensive medication management delivered by board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. Our clinicians utilize a holistic approach that incorporates in depth knowledge of how pre-existing medical conditions can influence and trigger psychiatric symptoms. The decision to begin medication management is a combined effort between the Provider and the individual patient.
Therapist
Referrals
Our board certified Nurse Practitioners work with a select group of well experienced Licensed Therapists in the Las Vegas area. Depending on the patient’s symptoms and goals, the patient and the Provider will determine if therapy could offer solutions to the current situation. Therapy can include individual, group or family for adults and children. Finding the right Licensed Therapist for your individual needs is very important. The Therapy referrals available at Mighty Mental Health will ensure that every available tool is being utilized to help reach each patient’s goal.
ADHD Testing and
Treatment
Our office offers both in office and online ADHD Testing for both children and adults. Our board certified Nurse Practitioners are trained to administer the tests and discuss the results with the patients and family. Testing is a great tool for Providers to use to help determine the best treatment plan for all patients. Our office uses the state of the art software created by QbCheck to help diagnose and track our ADHD patients.
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2685 South Rainbow Blvd
Suite 206
Las Vegas, NV 89146
- 702-479-1600
- Fax 702-479-1993
- OFFICE HOURS
- By Appointment Only
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- Tues: 8:30am - 6:00pm
- Wed: 8:30am - 6:00pm
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- Sat: 10:00am - 3:00pm
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