It’s common to equate social anxiety with panic attacks, but they’re actually not the same thing. While anxiety symptoms can include extreme fear, trembling, sweating, and rapid heartbeat, the diagnostic criteria for panic disorder and social anxiety are different. Here’s a breakdown of these disorders, and available treatments for people who are struggling with anxiety.
Symptoms Of Panic Attacks And Social Anxiety Disorder
Panic attacks, which often occur without warning, are characterized by shaking, heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, and a fear of going insane or losing control. Those with social anxiety experience some of these symptoms, but only in the presence of an obvious trigger associated with social interaction, such as talking to a stranger.
Signs of Social Anxiety/Panic Attacks: Avoidance and Fear
Because panic attacks are usually unpredictable and come with intense fear and physical sensations, people with this disorder come to fear the symptoms of a panic attack and may conclude that a physical problem is the cause. In order to feel more secure, they may avoid venturing far from home. Inability to leave this “safe zone” is known as agoraphobia.
For those with social anxiety, avoiding potentially embarrassing social situations is their top priority, so agoraphobia typically isn’t an issue. Fear centers on unwanted attention and criticism, rather than having a panic attack.
Overcoming Social Anxiety: Connecting with Others
People with panic disorder frequently isolate themselves because they don’t want others to see them having an anxiety attack. However, getting out and socializing can greatly benefit them, especially when friends and family are patient and understanding about their struggles. For social anxiety sufferers, isolation is common because interacting with others, not panic attacks, is their prime source of fear.
Is It Possible to Have Both Mental Health Disorders?
Although it is less common, it is possible to be diagnosed with both panic disorder and social anxiety. Those with especially high levels of social anxiety are likely candidates for a dual diagnosis. People with co-occurring disorders are also more prone to exhibiting poor coping skills and having other psychiatric problems.
Treatment for Anxiety Symptoms
A variety of treatments are available to alleviate anxiety. Medications, namely SSRIs, can reduce anxiety symptoms. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, helps people get to the root of their anxiety and adopt healthier thinking patterns.
Smokey Point Behavioral Hospital provides comprehensive, customized mental health treatment for anxiety symptoms. Contact us to schedule an evaluation or learn more about how we can help.