SOCIAL ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
Social anxiety and depression are two of the most diagnosed mental health conditions in the United States. This disorder affects approximately 15 million American adults and is the second most diagnosed anxiety disorder following a specific phobia. The average age this disorder is diagnosed is during the teen years. Many confuse shyness with social anxiety disorder. However, this is not always the case for those diagnosed.
Depression is characterized by persistent sadness, whereas social anxiety presents an intense fear of social interactions. If you have social anxiety, you may have trouble making friends and maintaining close relationships.
Fear of social interaction can even result in missed opportunities. Without treatment, your symptoms of social anxiety can lead to
· Frustration
· Feelings of hopelessness
· Isolation
· Depression
· Impairment of social functioning
· Impairment of occupational functioning
· Risk of suicide
Many with a social anxiety disorder also experience strong physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, nausea, sweating, or a full-blown panic attack when confronting a feared situation.
Some people with social phobia also have a history of being bullied, rejected, or ignored. These experiences can affect your self-esteem which can trigger depression.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN SOCIAL ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
While these are separate conditions, they can occur at the same time, creating a unique challenge. In fact, according to a 2014 review of studies, for nearly 70% of people diagnosed with both disorders, social anxiety comes first, then depression. In many instances, social anxiety can be a trigger for depression. Studies show that social anxiety disorder can also show a relationship between major depressive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and alcohol disorders among others.
Not everyone who has been diagnosed with a social anxiety disorder experiences the above-listed symptoms. Both social anxiety disorder and depression may involve social withdrawal. The causes of withdrawal can be different for those who struggle with this disorder. People with social anxiety disorder expect that they could enjoy themselves if they could somehow interact appropriately with others, whereas those with depression don’t ever expect to enjoy themselves.
Depression is often what leads people to seek help, even though social anxiety disorder may be the overlying problem. Usually, people who have social anxiety disorder will not speak to anyone about the problems that they face and often do not realize that they have a treatable illness. As a result, most people with social anxiety disorders do not usually receive treatment unless the disorder occurs alongside another condition.
THERE’S HOPE
Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad.” Talking with someone who understands and can offer proper support can assist you with being comfortable with being among groups of people and moving from a place of sadness to joy.
Although many of the treatments recommended for depression are also effective in treating social anxiety disorder, treatment must still be tailored to the specific disorder. With proper counseling treatment, you can get help and feel better.
Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) With a Christian counselor, you can work with someone who not only is familiar with treatment to help you get to a better place, but you will also work with someone who will support you in your relationship with Christ. Since He is your hope, you will continue to be encouraged to turn to Him while learning how to deal with the pressures that you are facing.
Call 443-860-6870 to schedule an appointment today.
