Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Social anxiety develops over time and restricts life to an ever increasing extent, therefore it is a matter of reversing the process, regaining life by "unlearning" the avoidance behaviour through exposure (Koch, S (2014)).
CBT is effective in treating social anxiety whether it is delivered individually or in a group (Sarah, W. Book, M. D., Carrie, L. Randall, Ph.D (2001)). The cognitive and behavioural components of CBT seek to change thought patterns and physical reactions to situations that induce the anxiety being faced (Bernard, F. (2008).
CBT is effective in treating social anxiety whether it is delivered individually or in a group (Sarah, W. Book, M. D., Carrie, L. Randall, Ph.D (2001)). The cognitive and behavioural components of CBT seek to change thought patterns and physical reactions to situations that induce the anxiety being faced (Bernard, F. (2008).
Medications
When CBT does not treat the individual suffering from social anxiety alone or the social anxiety has become too severe, medications is the only option left (Thomas, G (2004)). Along with CBT, benzodiazepines, beta blockers and anti-depressants are the most common medications used (Pointing, M (2014)). These medications remove the anxiety element of this condition (Pointing, M (2014)).
Relaxation Techniques
Slow Breathing
Breathing rate increases automatically as a part of the fight or flight response so learning to slow your breathing can really help with onset anxiety (Bernard, F (2008)).
- Take deep slow breaths in and out for one minute.
- Remember to focus on your breathing. (Close your eyes if this helps)