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Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder

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If you are diagnosed with social anxiety disorder , your doctor may prescribe medication to help you feel less anxious and afraid. A doctor or counselor who is trained in treating social anxiety disorder can also help you to become more comfortable in social situations. The optimal treatment for most patients includes a combination of drug therapy and psychotherapy (eg, cognitive-behavioral therapy ).

Treatment involves the following:

MedicationsOther treatments—therapy

Surgical procedures are not indicated for the treatment of social anxiety disorder.

Revision Information

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.

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References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnosis and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-IV-TR. American Psychiatric Association; 2000.

  • Schneier FR. Clinical practice. Social anxiety disorder. N Engl J Med. 2006;355:1029-1036.

  • Social phobia (social anxiety disorder). National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/social-phobia-social-anxiety-disorder.shtml . Updated October 2008. Accessed October 30, 2008.

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