Social phobia also manifests itself with physical symptoms. Physical symptoms such as sweating, shaking, facial flushing, nausea, and difficulty breathing are frequently experienced. These symptoms can negatively impact a person’s quality of life. Social phobia can also reduce functionality. Work or school performance may decrease, and reduced social interactions may isolate the person. At the same time, this disorder may cause negative thoughts and the person may tend to evaluate himself negatively. Individuals experiencing social phobia often tend to avoid situations or interactions they fear. They may exhibit behaviors such as avoiding social activities and not being in society.
What causes social phobia?
Social phobia is a psychological disorder that occurs as a result of a complex action-reaction process. Family history may increase the risk of social phobia. The presence of similar anxieties or other anxiety disorders in family members of people with social phobia indicates the role of genetic predisposition.
Brain chemistry and structure may be effective in the development of social phobia. Chemical imbalances or neurological factors may contribute to the emergence of this disorder. Negative experiences during childhood may increase the risk of social phobia. Traumatic events such as abuse, violence or humiliation may be effective in the development of this disorder.
People experiencing social phobia tend to constantly criticize and evaluate themselves negatively. These negative thought patterns can contribute to the development of the disorder. The risk of social phobia may be increased in people who overreact to society’s social norms or pressures. Fear of negative evaluation or criticism, especially in society, may contribute to the emergence of this disorder. Individuals who are more emotionally sensitive or sensitive may be more prone to social phobia.
Can social phobia be cured?
Yes, social phobia is a recoverable and treatable psychological disorder. Individuals with social phobia can manage symptoms with appropriate treatment approaches and support. One of the most commonly used methods to treat social phobia is cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy helps the person understand their irrational thoughts and fears. The individual changes negative thought patterns and improves their ability to cope with their fears.
In some cases, medications can help relieve social phobia symptoms. Antidepressants and anxiolytic medications may be used as part of the treatment plan. Systematic desensitization method can be used in the treatment of social phobia. In this method, the person is accustomed to being exposed to what he or she fears. It is gradually directed towards the feared object or situation. This can help the person face their fears.
Overcoming social phobia is a process that requires effort, but it is a fact that some exercises and practice can help. Social phobia overcoming exercises are methods that you can apply on your own without the guidance of a professional therapist. Improving personal skills such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation exercises, and practicing positive thinking can be helpful in dealing with social phobia.
What happens if social phobia is left untreated?
If social phobia is left untreated, an individual’s quality of life can be significantly affected and lead to serious consequences. Some of the negative consequences that may occur if social phobia is left untreated:
- Social Isolation: Social phobia may cause a person to avoid interacting in public or with others. This isolation can lead to a person feeling lonely and losing their social support network.
- Professional and Educational Issues: Social phobia can negatively impact work performance and school success. Failure in jobs or school projects that require social interaction may result from this disorder.
- Depression: Social phobia may increase the risk of depression. Prolonged isolation, low self-esteem, and avoidance of social interactions can promote the development of depression.
- Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Some people may turn to alcohol or substance abuse to relieve social phobia symptoms. This can lead to addiction problems.
- Other Anxiety Disorders: Other anxiety disorders, especially generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, may occur more frequently in people who experience social phobia.
- Physical Health Problems: Social phobia can lead to physical health problems caused by chronic stress. There may be an increased risk of physical health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and digestive problems.
When left untreated, social phobia can significantly limit a person’s life. However, on a positive note, it may be possible to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.