Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a common mental health condition in the UK. It can be a debilitating disorder that can have a massive impact on a person’s ability to function in social situations, leading to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and isolation. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for social anxiety in the UK. In this article, we’ll explore the best treatment options for social anxiety, including therapy and medication.

Therapy

Therapy is often the first line of treatment for social anxiety. The two most effective types of therapy for social anxiety are cognitive-behaviour therapy (CBT), including exposure therapy.

CBT is a kind of talking therapy which specializes in identifying unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. With the help of a trained thesrapist, individuals with social anxiety can  challenge their negative thoughts, learn new coping strategies, and practice social skills in a safe and supportive environment.

Exposure therapy is a very important part of therapy for social anxiety. It involves gradually exposing the individual to feared social situations, usually starting with role plays in the session, which may sound a bit cringing, but it is a really helpful in-between step to trying it out in real life situations. This can help people learn to tolerate and eventually overcome their anxiety.

Medication

Sometimes medication can be prescribed by a medical doctor to help reduce anxiety symptoms. The two primary kinds of medicinal drug used for social anxiety are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines.

SSRIs are a form of antidepressant that work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. They can help reduce the symptoms of social anxiety and improve mood. However, it can take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be felt.

Benzodiazepines are a type of sedative that can help reduce anxiety in the short-term. However, these are not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence and other side effects. Medication is best used in conjunction with therapy, since it will only control the symptoms but not change the underlying problem, unless coping strategies are also learned alongside it. 

Seeking Professional Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with social anxiety, it’s important to seek professional help. A trained therapist or mental health professional can provide effective treatment and support for managing social anxiety.

Sue Webb Psychology is a private psychology practice based in the UK that offers CBT and other evidence-based treatments for social anxiety. With years of experience helping individuals with social anxiety, Sue Webb Psychology can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to overcome their anxiety and improve their quality of life.

Self-Help Strategies

In addition to therapy and medication, there are several self-help strategies that can be effective for managing social anxiety. These include:

1. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.
2. Learning social skills through self-help books, online resources, or classes.
3. Seeking support from friends, family, or a support group.
4. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
5. Avoiding drugs and alcohol, which can worsen anxiety symptoms.
6. Using positive self-talk to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs.

Conclusion

Social anxiety is a common mental health condition in the UK, but it’s important to remember that effective treatments are available. Therapy, medication, and self-help strategies can all be effective for managing social anxiety. If you or a loved one is struggling with social anxiety, seeking professional help is the first step towards overcoming this condition and improving your quality of life. Dr Sue Webb, a clinical Psychologist with more than 30 years of experience, helps people cope with stressful situations. Contact Sue Webb Psychology today to learn more about our services and how we can help you overcome social anxiety.

Dr Sue Webb
Clinical Psychologist
May 2023