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Social Anxiety Disorder

sosiaalinen ahdistussosiaalinen fobiasocial phobiasocial anxiety

Intense and persistent fear of social situations where the person fears being judged or humiliated.

Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) is a common anxiety disorder.

Typical feared situations

  • Performing or speaking in groups
  • Meeting new people
  • Eating in the company of others
  • Talking on the phone
  • Dealing with authority figures
  • Being the center of attention

Symptoms

  • Intense anxiety before and during social situations
  • Blushing, sweating, trembling
  • Belief that others are judging negatively
  • Avoidance of situations
  • Impact on work, studies, and relationships

Treatment

Social anxiety disorder is very treatable: - CBT: Dismantling safety behaviors, changing thought patterns, gradual exposure - Group CBT: the group provides a natural practice environment - Medication: a doctor assesses whether medication is needed - Kela rehabilitation psychotherapy may be possible if the disorder threatens your ability to work or study and has been treated for at least 3 months

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