Reducing Your Risk of Social Anxiety Disorder

There are currently no guidelines for reducing your risk of social anxiety disorder . However, since this disorder tends to relapse, there are certain factors which could help reduce the risk of relapse including the following:

See your doctor as soon as you notice the symptoms of social anxiety disorder.
Avoid smoking , drinking alcohol , and using illicit drugs .
Avoid caffeine .
Avoid the following drugs: ephedrine , phenyephrine, isoproterenol , antipsychotic medication, diet pills, drugs for flu or colds, and steroids.
Attend support groups.
Attend family or marital counseling if needed.

References

Social anxiety disorder (social phobia). Anxiety Disorders of America website. Available at: http://www.adaa.org/GettingHelp/AnxietyDisorders/SocialPhobia.asp . Updated October 2008. Accessed October 30, 2008.

Social phobia (social anxiety disorder). National Institute of Mental Health website. Available at: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/anxiety-disorders/social-phobia-social-anxiety-disorder.shtml . Updated October 2008. Accessed October 30, 2008.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Michael Woods, MD
Review Date: 11/2012
Update Date: 11/26/2012

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.