Social Phobia (Treatments)

Fortunately, most anxiety disorders can be treated successfully by a trained health or mental health care professional.

Research has shown that there are two main forms of effective treatment for social phobia: short-term psychotherapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy, and certain medications.
 
Cognitive-Behavioral and Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that is very effective in treating social phobia. It has two components. The cognitive component helps people change thinking patterns that keep them from overcoming their fears. For example, a person with social phobia might be helped to overcome the belief that others are continually watching and harshly judging him. The behavioral component of CBT seeks to help people become more comfortable with the situations that frighten them.

A key element of this component is exposure, in which people confront the things they fear. The exposure process generally involves three stages. First, a person is introduced to the feared situation. The second step is to increase the risk for disapproval in that situation so a person can build confidence that she can handle rejection or criticism. The third step involves teaching a person techniques for coping with disapproval. In this stage, one is asked to imagine his worst fear and is encouraged to develop constructive responses to his fear and perceived disapproval.

These stages are often accompanied by anxiety management training -- for example, teaching people techniques such as deep breathing to control their anxiety. If this is all done carefully, with support from the therapist, it may be possible to defuse the anxiety associated with feared situations.

If you undergo CBT or behavioral therapy, exposure will be carried out only when you are ready; it will be done gradually and only with your permission. You will work with the therapist to determine how much you can handle and at what pace you can proceed.

A major aim of CBT and behavioral therapy is to reduce anxiety by eliminating beliefs or behaviors that help to maintain the anxiety disorder. For example, avoidance of a feared object or situation prevents a person from learning that it is harmless.

CBT and behavioral therapy have no adverse side effects other than the temporary discomfort of increased anxiety, but the therapist must be well trained in the techniques of the treatment  for it to work as desired. During treatment, the therapist will likely assign homework -- specific problems that the patient will need to work on between sessions.

CBT or behavioral therapy generally lasts about 12 weeks. It may be conducted in a group, provided the people in the group have sufficiently similar problems. Supportive therapy such as group therapy, or couples or family therapy to educate significant others about the disorder, is also helpful. Sometimes people with social phobia also benefit from social skills training. Individuals suffering from social phobia should seek out a provider who is competent in cognitive and behavioral therapies.