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Social anxiety: an often silent disorder
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinical Trials Program, Emory University School of Medicine, 1841 Clifton Road, Room 402, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA. jkels01@emory.edu
Psychopharmacology Bulletin
|October 26, 2002
Summary
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is common yet often missed. Treating SAD, even when a patient presents with depression, significantly improves outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition.
- SAD frequently co-occurs with other mental health disorders.
- Under-recognition of SAD is a significant clinical challenge.
Observation:
- A patient initially sought treatment for major depressive disorder.
- The patient was subsequently diagnosed with co-occurring social anxiety disorder.
- The social anxiety disorder had a history predating the major depressive disorder.
Findings:
- Integrated treatment addressing both SAD and major depressive disorder was implemented.
- Effective management of SAD led to a substantial improvement in the patient's overall outcome.
- Pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy were discussed as viable treatment modalities.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of screening for SAD in patients presenting with depression.
- Emphasizes that treating underlying SAD can enhance recovery from comorbid conditions.
- Underscores the need for comprehensive diagnostic assessment in psychiatric care.
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