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Treatments & Conditions

Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder

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:

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

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: . Updated October 2008. Accessed October 30, 2008.

Last reviewed November 2012 by Michael Woods, MD

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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