Social anxiety

Symptoms include intense fear of others' judgment, physical symptoms such as palpitations, tremors, excessive sweating and blushing. There are also behavioral symptoms such as avoidance of social situations, difficulty speaking in public, and cognitive symptoms such as automatic negative thoughts and low self-esteem.

Shyness is normal and temporary, while social anxiety is persistent and interferes significantly with daily life. If your fear of social situations prevents you from working, studying, maintaining relationships or participating in important activities, and if this fear has lasted for at least six months, it could be social anxiety requiring medical consultation.

Social anxiety usually results from a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors. A family history of anxiety disorders, traumatic or embarrassing experiences, a naturally inhibited temperament, and certain chemical imbalances in the brain can all contribute to the development of this condition.

Yes, social anxiety generally tends to get worse without treatment. Avoidance of social situations can reinforce fears and create a vicious circle. What's more, untreated social anxiety increases the risk of developing other disorders such as depression, other anxiety disorders, or addiction problems.

Diagnosis is made during a consultation with a doctor, who will assess your symptoms, their duration, their impact on your daily life and your medical history. The doctor will use specific diagnostic criteria and may use standardized questionnaires to assess the severity of your symptoms and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

Several treatment options are available, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is particularly effective for social anxiety. Medications such as SSRI antidepressants, beta-blockers for physical symptoms, or anxiolytics for short-term relief may also be prescribed. Treatment is often tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

A GP can effectively diagnose and treat social anxiety, particularly in less severe cases. He or she can prescribe medication and provide basic therapeutic advice. However, for more complex or treatment-resistant cases, a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist may be recommended for more in-depth treatment.

Medication is not always necessary. Cognitive-behavioural therapy alone can be very effective for many people. However, medication can be helpful in reducing symptoms and facilitating participation in therapy, particularly in more severe cases. The decision to use medication depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient's preferences.

Treatment duration varies according to the individual and the severity of symptoms. Cognitive-behavioural therapy generally lasts between 12 and 20 sessions. Medication may be prescribed for several months or years, with adjustments made according to response to treatment. Some people see improvement within a few weeks, while others may require longer treatment.

With appropriate treatment, most people with social anxiety can significantly improve their quality of life and function normally in social situations. Although some people may retain sensitivity to social situations, symptoms can be effectively managed, enabling a fulfilling and productive life. Successful treatment depends on many factors, including early intervention and commitment to the therapeutic process.