Social Anxiety: Hidden Fears and Shame in Teens and Adults

Social anxiety is a condition of persistent fear or anxiety about being embarrassed or humiliated in social situations, affecting millions of people in the US. It goes beyond transient fears and can involve chronic and persistent worries about past or present wishes or thoughts. The book highlights 22 case examples of individuals with social anxiety, ranging from age 14 to 52, and explores the various treatment interventions available, including psychotherapy, medications, and family interventions. It is written in an engaging style that will be accessible to both medical and mental health professionals and laypeople, including those suffering from social anxiety themselves and their family and community.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 142 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2024
Publisher: American Psychiatric Association Publishing

Social anxiety, as defined by the DSM-5-TR, is a condition characterized by persistent fear or anxiety about being severely embarrassed or humiliated in social situations where the fear is disproportionate to the actual threat. This condition affects millions of people in the United States and can have a significant impact on their daily lives. Social anxiety is not just about meeting new people or public speaking; it can also involve chronic and persistent fears and shame related to past or present wishes or thoughts that are considered unacceptable.

The book "Social Anxiety: Hidden Fears and Shame in Teens and Adults" provides 22 case examples of individuals from age 14 to age 52, highlighting the chronic and persistent nature of social anxiety. It also explores the wide variety of treatment interventions available, including psychotherapy, medications, and family interventions. The book is written in an engaging style that will be easily accessible to laypeople, including those suffering from social anxiety themselves, as well as their family and community.

One of the key findings of the book is that social anxiety does not correspond merely to transient fears such as meeting new people or public speaking. It can be chronic and persistent, affecting individuals' daily lives and relationships. Many individuals with social anxiety avoid seeking help because of the stigma associated with the condition.

The book also examines the causes of social anxiety, including genetic factors, environmental factors, and brain chemistry. It highlights the importance of early intervention and treatment to prevent the development of chronic social anxiety.

In addition to the case examples and treatment interventions, the book also provides practical tips and strategies for managing social anxiety. These include techniques for managing anxiety in social situations, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The book also discusses the importance of self-care and support, including seeking out social support and engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation.

Overall, "Social Anxiety: Hidden Fears and Shame in Teens and Adults" is a comprehensive and engaging guide to social anxiety. It provides valuable information for medical and mental health professionals, as well as for individuals suffering from social anxiety themselves and their family and community. By understanding the nature, causes, and effects of social anxiety, we can work towards reducing the stigma associated with the condition and providing effective treatment and support to those who need it.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781615375486