Question:

Ever since the sixth grade, I've really had trouble talking to people and interacting socially. In elementary school, I was always the class clown and had plenty of friends. However, in middle school, I had trouble interacting with others, even my friends. Some of my "symptoms" are that I often cannot think of things to say to people and have a great deal of fear in meeting new people. It has become progressively worse ever since and is hindering several of my relationships. I've always written it off as my being shy. Is it something deeper? Is there any way to treat it?

Answer:

You are describing symptoms of Social Phobia or Social Anxiety Disorder, and you are not alone. The National Institute of Mental Health's Web site estimates that social phobia affects about 5.3 million adult Americans. Women and men are equally likely to develop social phobia. The disorder usually begins in childhood or early adolescence, and there is some evidence that genetic factors are involved. Social phobia often co-occurs with other anxiety disorders or depression. Some people turn to alcohol or other drugs in an attempt to "self medicate" the anxiety thus creating an additional problem.

Social phobia can be treated successfully with carefully targeted psychotherapy (which can include relaxation training, identifying and challenging fearful or anxiety producing self-talk, role playing and learning assertiveness skills) and medications.

If you are interested in exploring treatment options, you can schedule an initial consultation on campus at the Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by calling 863-0395 or coming to 221 Ritenour. CAPS offers groups for Anxiety and Stress Management. There are also private therapists in the State College community who specialize in working with anxiety disorders including social phobia.