Social anxiety disorder is a serious and often debilitating illness. Millions of people struggle with social anxiety to some degree, but very few receive the diagnosis or treatment they deserve. Usually, it takes a full social anxiety disorder treatment program to make a lasting difference. Discover what to expect from these programs and how various treatments can help clients work through social anxiety for good.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

One of the most effective strategies in a social anxiety disorder treatment program is CBT or cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT can take place in a one-on-one environment, or it’s offered in a group setting. One of the goals of cognitive behavioral therapy is cognitive restructuring. This means seeing situations rationally, without emotional input.

For example, some people struggling with social anxiety don’t like speaking to large groups. Rationally, there is no reason to worry about this. Eliminating personal fears like shame or fear can make it easier to tackle specific tasks in life.

CBT is structured, and it aims to eliminate negative thinking. With a more positive mindset, clients will find it easier to stick to a social anxiety disorder treatment program and continue to make progress.

Exposure Therapy

Often, clients can benefit from exposure therapy, which is all about confronting your fears in a controlled environment. Being exposed to the things that cause you the most anxiety may make it easier to deal with them in the future.

For example, a person who is afraid to go to busy places like a shopping mall might talk about the experience with a therapist. A trained therapist can guide clients through the process of parking, entering the mall and talking to someone there. These actions might cause some anxiety, but repeated exposure can reduce discomfort over time.

Relaxation Techniques

Dealing with anxiety is the opposite of feeling relaxed. Social anxiety can be a tremendous source of stress, and many people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms as a way of dealing with that. That’s why there’s such a strong connection between addiction and social anxiety disorder.

Fortunately, there are better ways to relax and manage stress. While in a treatment program, clients can learn about the best ways to relax, whether that means picking up a new hobby or getting active. A holistic approach like yoga and meditation can also be beneficial for many individuals.

Boosting Self Confidence

There is often a link between social anxiety disorder and a lack of confidence. For that reason, it is helpful to boost self-esteem. An excellent recovery program will allow clients to try new things, master hobbies and feel good about themselves. Improving self-image can be one more resource in the battle against a social anxiety disorder.

Pharmacological Therapy

While not always necessary, there is a time and a place for pharmacological therapy in a social anxiety disorder treatment program. Antidepressants, or SSRIs, may help clients deal with some of their worst symptoms.

However, not every person needs to rely on medication. In fact, some clients who are already struggling with substance abuse issues may find that avoiding medications is the best course of action for their lifestyle.

The Addiction and Social Anxiety Disorder Connection

It is common for men and women to deal with co occurring disorders. This means that clients need to face more than one disorder at a time. The addiction social anxiety disorder link is well documented, and it often requires dual diagnosis treatment.

Sometimes, those with a social anxiety disorder turn to substance abuse as a means of relief. This, in turn, leads to an addiction. This is the addition of social anxiety disorder connection, and it is more common than you might expect.

Completing a Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment Program at Beaches Recovery

At Beaches Recovery, clients can begin a comprehensive and customized social anxiety disorder treatment program. The program includes a wide range of therapies, and clients can choose which methods will be most effective. Some therapies include:

• Music and art therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Group therapy
• Fitness and equine therapy
• 12 Step recovery program

The right addiction social anxiety disorder treatment program has the potential to change lives. At Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, you can learn to manage social anxiety and any co-occurring concerns as well as addiction. Call 866.605.0532 to begin working toward the life you deserve.