Social anxiety can feel insurmountable. You go through every day, worried about what others think, afraid to try new things, and even meet new people. It can be isolating. But you can break free from this cycle. An intensive outpatient program (IOP) for social anxiety can help.
IOPs provide a transformative approach to overcoming social anxiety. They blend expert advice from mental health professionals, group therapy for peer support, and various holistic methods.
But what can you expect from an intensive outpatient program for social anxiety? How is it different from traditional outpatient therapy?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more as we delve into the intricacies of IOPs. If you’re thinking about an intensive outpatient program for social anxiety for you or someone you care about, it’s important to know what to expect.
Our Social Anxiety IOP in San Diego
What is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Having social anxiety is a lot more than just being shy. It’s a diagnosable mental health disorder characterized by persistent worries and fears about being judged by others. You may shy away from social situations. Or if you do interact with others, it’s typically with great distress. It can manifest through:
- rapid heart rate
- sweating
- blushing
- trembling
- nausea
When you deal with social anxiety disorder, your fear of embarrassment is so overwhelming that you may choose to isolate yourself from the world.
According to Mental Health America, approximately 15 million American adults struggle with social anxiety disorder, making it one of the most common mental health disorders. However, despite its prevalence, many suffer in silence. This may be due to the negative mental health stigma that it’s just something to “get over.”
It’s crucial to understand that social anxiety is a legitimate and treatable mental health condition. Unlike the misconceptions tied to it, social anxiety is not a sign of weakness or a choice you make. It’s a mental health condition that often requires professional treatment for social anxiety.
Typical Structure of an IOP for Social Anxiety
This treatment for social anxiety provides a balanced and comprehensive approach. Intensive outpatient programs include multiple therapy sessions each week during treatment. At BOLD Health, our IOP lasts ten weeks and includes nine to fifteen hours of therapy each week.
Most IOPs, including our social anxiety IOP in San Diego, offer a combination of:
- individual therapy
- group therapy
- family therapy
- psychoeducation
- medication management (if needed)
The frequency and duration of sessions will vary based on your individual needs and progress. Each aspect of an IOP has unique benefits that combine to form a powerful way to help you overcome social anxiety.
In your one-on-one sessions, you will work with your therapist to tackle specific issues and develop personalized strategies for managing your social anxiety. Your therapist will help you spot and tackle negative thoughts. They may use methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Individual therapy allows for an in-depth exploration of the underlying causes of social anxiety. You’ll also learn and develop coping skills to help you manage your triggers and symptoms.
Group Therapy
Group therapy is a critical part of an intensive outpatient program for social anxiety. Group therapy sessions offer a safe space to share experiences. You can learn from others and practice the new skills you learn. Group sessions can help you feel less isolated and more understood as you bond with others experiencing similar challenges.
The therapists leading your group may use various techniques and activities to promote discussion and help you build new skills. Group therapy also allows you to face your fears in a controlled and supportive environment.
Family Therapy
In addition to individual and group therapy, IOPs may include family therapy sessions. Involving family members in your treatment can educate them about your struggles and how they can support you. Family therapy can also help improve communication and strengthen relationships, which can help you as you progress on your recovery journey.
Medication Management
Not everyone can benefit from medication management for social anxiety. But if you and your therapist think it would be helpful, especially when combined with therapy, they may suggest medication. The most common meds prescribed for social anxiety include the following:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These increase serotonin levels to improve mood and reduce anxiety
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): These work similarly to SSRIs but also target norepinephrine, which helps with mood regulation.
- Beta Blockers: These are most often prescribed for performance-related social anxiety. They help reduce physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat.
- Benzodiazepines: These have a fast-acting, calming effect for severe anxiety episodes. While they are highly effective, they are also extremely addictive, so they are only prescribed for short periods.
Looking for Anxiety Treatment in San Diego? You Can Count on Our IOP for Social Anxiety.
Choosing treatment for social anxiety can feel overwhelming. Talking with a therapist one-on-one or in a group may seem impossible when you struggle with social anxiety. However, individualized therapy, tailored to your needs, and a supportive and safe environment can do wonders for you.
Overcoming social anxiety isn’t something you can do on your own. Trust in our physician-led team here at BOLD Health to walk you through your struggles, understand the underlying causes, and help you finally live a life free from the bonds of social anxiety.
Meeting your therapist and peers for the first time can be intimidating, but it is essential to remember that everyone in an IOP is there for the same reason: to seek help and support. The initial sessions may focus on building rapport and trust with your therapist and getting to know the other group members. This process takes time, but it is a crucial step in creating a safe and supportive environment where you can work on your social anxiety. Remember that everyone in the program is on a similar journey, and you are not alone.
Contact us to learn more about our anxiety treatment in San Diego, including our IOP for social anxiety. You deserve to live a more fulfilling life, and we’d love to help you get there.