Improving Care for Social Anxiety Disorder
Opinions vary on the difference between normal shyness and social anxiety disorder. A new paper seeks to inform the public and policymakers on the disorder and provide guidance for diagnosis and treatment.
Some individuals may become nervous before a big presentation to the bosses at work, while others may become a bit anxious thinking about approaching an attractive stranger at a party. And while these responses seem normal, what is the line between normal shyness and social anxiety disorder?
In the new study, Rhode Island Hospital researcher Kristy L. Dalrymple, Ph.D., reviewed the difference between the fear and social anxiety disorder (SAD). In doing so, Dalrymple discovered differing beliefs of over- and underdiagnosis of social anxiety disorder (SAD) and its treatment options.
Her findings are found in a paper published in the Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics.
“There are many differing opinions about social anxiety disorder and the best treatment,” Dalrymple said. “Should it be treated with medication, behavioral therapy, or both? The significant increase in the prescription of antidepressant medications (which often are used to treat SAD) over the past several years — an increase of 400 percent — should be considered when determining the best approach.
Dalrymple believes this practice needs review. “Are we simply medicating, or are we helping patients to truly improve their quality of life?”
SAD is defined as a fear of embarrassment or humiliation in social situations to the point that these situations often are avoided or endured with a significant amount of distress.
Studies have shown that it is the fourth most common mental disorder in the U.S., with a prevalence rate as high as 13 percent in the general population of Western countries, and as high as 30 percent within those who are seeking mental health treatment.
It also has been well-documented in previous studies that those who suffer from social anxiety disorder often suffer from other psychiatric disorders as well, such as mood, other anxiety and substance use disorders.
SAD can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life. It is associated with lower levels of educational attainment, single marital status and unemployment.
It also is associated with fewer days worked and reduced work productivity, and as a result, with substantial economic costs.
Experts acknowledge that SAD is difficult to diagnose, a factor that impedes care. Often those who suffer from the disorder may be reluctant to admit it due to the fear of humiliation, or embarrassment about seeking help.
And, despite decades of research, no definitive cause has been identified, and further study is warranted.
“Despite its prevalence, social anxiety disorder has not received the same attention from the public or mainstream media as other disorders, such as obsessive compulsive disorder,” Dalrymple said.
“Due to its social and economic impact, it merits further study in order to help researchers and clinicians determine possible causes, and the best treatment.
“This isn’t about overcoming shyness,” she continued. “This is about helping our patients who suffer from a disorder that prevents them from living a happy and healthy life.”
Nauert PhD, R. (2015). Improving Care for Social Anxiety Disorder. Psych Central. Retrieved on February 20, 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/news/2012/11/20/improving-care-for-social-anxiety-disorder/47941.html