Social anxiety disorder is one form of anxiety disorder that affects millions of people. Social phobia or social anxiety disorder is an extreme fear of being watched or judged by others. This is different from just being shy because people with social phobia are afraid of doing common things when there are people around them. They become nervous or consumed by extreme fear even on doing simple tasks like eating or writing in front of other people. It is normal to get nervous when giving a speech in front of other people but people with social phobia worry about it days or weeks before it actually happen. Living with this kind of fear can decrease the quality of their lives and it is important to find ways on how to achieve freedom from social anxiety.

Although most sufferers know that their fears have no rational basis, they cannot control their fear and they usually end up avoiding social situations. The avoidance can be very disabling and can keep them from doing common daily tasks and from enjoying the company of their family and friends. Knowing how to achieve freedom from social anxiety can greatly improve the quality of their lives. People with social anxiety disorder have the following symptoms:

  • cannot act normally in front of other people and are very self-conscious
  • avoid places where there are other people
  • worry for days or weeks before a feared social event
  • very anxious and afraid to be with other people
  • blush, sweat terribly, trembling, nausea and unable to talk when they are with other people
  • meeting new people and making friends are difficult for them to accomplish

Humans are social animals and we need to interact with people around us to have a fulfilling and happy life. Having social phobia is a hindrance in creating a good quality life. Fortunately, it is a treatable disorder and there is help available to achieve freedom from social anxiety.

Of course it is best to seek professional help. Doctors specialized on mental health who have the necessary trainings and experience can help you overcome social phobia. You doctor may recommend medications like antidepressants, anti-anxiety medicines and beta blockers. It is important to take medicines under the supervision of your health care provider because stopping medications or increasing its dosage without your doctor's consent can be very harmful to your overall health.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is one treatment that can help sufferers deal with anxiety disorder. CBT is a good treatment method for anxiety because it will teach you how to change your negative thinking pattern which is one of the main causes of anxiety attacks. Sufferers can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy in the long-term because they will eventually learn and master the techniques needed to manage their thoughts and emotions. This method is cost effective and free from any side effects caused by medications.

With proper treatment many people with social phobia can lead a normal quality life. It is important to find the best treatment that will work for you. If you or someone you love is suffering from social phobia and still looking for the best ways to achieve freedom from social anxiety, alternative treatment is another option. To free yourself from social anxiety visit Panic Disorder Freedom

Copyright © 2011 Thesie Cortez All Rights Reserved.

Author's Bio: 

Thesie Cortez is an established article writer and an internet marketer. This article is free for republishing provided that the author's name and website links are retained.