Q: Which specialist should I consult for social anxiety disorder (SAD)?
A: You should consult a psychologist who will assess the severity of the condition and offer psychotherapy (CBT). If medications should be given, he may refer you to a psychiatrist.
Q: How common is SAD?
A: It is quite common and the third most common mental disorder. Lifetime prevalence rates of SAD across all countries is estimated to be about 4%. Prevalence rates are the least in low and low-middle income countries, Africa and the Mediterranean regions, and highest in the developed world, the Americas and the Western Pacific regions.
Q: Can SAD be cured?
A: Yes. It is an eminently treatable condition. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to produce very good results. Medications may be prescribed if deemed necessary.
Q: Is social anxiety disorder a mental illness?
A: Yes. It is a mental health condition characterized by extreme and persistent fear and anxiety of being judged by others. However, with treatment, persons can achieve their potential.
Q: Can children suffer from SAD?
A: Yes. The average age of onset in children is about 13 years, but it has been reported in children as young as 4 to 5 years. It is important that parents seek early treatment before it worsens.
Q: How to treat children with SAD?
A: A combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication is very effective in treating children with anxiety disorders. Recent research has shown that a combination of CBT and an antidepressant is more useful in treating children (aged 7–17 years) with anxiety than either treatment alone.
