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Is Social Anxiety Disorder A Disability?

Is Social Anxiety Disorder A Disability?

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Is Social Anxiety Disorder A Disability?

Every person once in their life has experienced anxiety. But, if an individual faces this anxiety feeling continuously then it is a cause of concern. The first thought that comes to a person struggling with an anxiety disorder is whether social anxiety disorder is a disability or not and can you get disability for social anxiety? The simple answer to this query is that yes, anxiety disorders come under the umbrella of disability. Therefore, if you feel anxious and unable to work, you may qualify for assistance. Social anxiety can be extremely overwhelming and those experiencing it must get the required mental health support.

More interesting facts about the concern of many people: “Is social anxiety disorder a disability?” are discussed in this article.

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

When a person develops extreme levels of fear and anxiety particularly in social gatherings then

they are certainly suffering from social anxiety disorder. Such people have a heightened fear of people judging them.

Read More: Can Anxiety Disorder Cause High Blood Pressure? Insights About The Connection

Social Anxiety Disorder Symptoms

Social Anxiety Disorder is characterized by the following signs:

  • Extreme fear of situations where there are chances of being judged
  • Worrying about embarrassment
  • Heightened fear of interaction with others
  • Anxious about your anxiety being noticed
  • Fear of physical signs that can lead to embarrassment
  • Avoiding socializing with people
  • Expecting the worst possible results

Some common physical symptoms are:

  • Blushing
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Trembling
  • Shortness of breath
  • Lightheadedness
  • Muscle tension
  • Sweating

What Is Social Assistance?

Every person experiencing mental health illness needs strong mental and physical support. Therefore, the Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States provides such individuals with the best benefits who fit the criteria of disability due to mental illness.

Two different government programs offer assistance to individuals with disabilities.

  • SSDI: pays money to your family members only if you are insured.
  • SSI: pays money to adults and children with limited income due to disability.

What Comes Under The Category Of Disability?

As per the SSA, if a person falls under the falling criteria then it is considered a disability:

  • You are unable to perform the way you used to perform.
  • You are not able to adjust easily due to your mental health condition.
  • Your mental health disability has lasted or is expected to last for one year or is fatal.

Requirements For Attaining Anxiety Disorders Disability

Attaining disability benefits is not possible without the following documents:

  • Medical History
  • Mental State Examination
  • Personal Statement
  • Work Evaluations
  • Family Statements
  • Psychological testing
  • Treatment History
  • Social Worker Statements

Read More: Understanding The Connection Between Male Depression And Emotional Affairs

Can Social Anxiety Disorder Cure?

Social anxiety disorder is highly treatable with appropriate psychiatric medications and Cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Psychiatric medications:

Antidepressants are effective for both depression and anxiety and are considered a frontline treatment for overcoming the signs of social anxiety disorder. Beneficial categories of psychiatric medications are:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):

SSRIs are a type of antidepressant that treat social anxiety disorder symptoms. The most often used are fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine, and escitalopram.

Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs):

SNRIs are an effective type of antidepressant. The most common ones are venlafaxine or Cymbalta.

Benzodiazepines:

These are the categories of medications that are used for a short period, mostly when a person starts to take antidepressants or use them on a special request in situations that trigger anxiety. These are not made to be used for a long period. The common examples are lorazepam or alprazolam. 

Beta-Blockers:

Some specific beta blockers are used to prevent the physical signs of anxiety such as a rapid heart rate. Some common examples are propranolol or metoprolol.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy:

CBT is a type of talk therapy that helps a mentally struggling person to alter unpleasant thinking patterns into pleasant ones. This eventually helps in changing the associated negative behaviors.

CBT usually requires multiple therapeutic sessions. Via talking and asking certain questions related to the mental health illness your psychologist helps you develop a different perspective. As a result, you adapt better and helpful stress and anxiety coping techniques.

Read More: Understanding The Different Types Of Trauma

Conclusion!

Social Anxiety Disorder is a mental health disorder primarily based on social withdrawal. Moreover, the signs also include extreme fear of interacting with others and being judged or observed negatively. The good news is that the Social Security Administration aids such people by giving them disability benefits for social anxiety disorders. Additionally, social anxiety disorder is treatable. The most common and effective treatment approaches are psychiatric medications and cognitive-behavioral therapy. If you are also experiencing the signs of social anxiety disorder then now is the ideal time for you to consult Orange Coast Psychiatry’s mental health experts and regain your mental stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, it is also possible for an individual suffering from social anxiety disorder to qualify for disability benefits in case their disorder significantly hampers their functionality and their ability to work. To qualify for SSDI, you must satisfy the SSA’s requirements, such as providing medical records of the disability.

Of course, with the right medication and therapy, many individuals report great reductions in these symptoms and are thus more capable of going out, working, and performing these roles.

Such a scenario can be heartbreaking. However, the best you can do is to appeal the decision by sharing further details of your medical history and how a particular mental health disorder is limiting your performance at work and socially.

Reference and Footnotes

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Richard Samedra.

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC

Richard Samedra, PMHNP-BC, is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He brings over 12 years of experience in the mental health field, working with clients facing a wide range of acute and chronic mental health conditions. His journey began as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and Charge Nurse at Westminster Therapeutic Residential Treatment, where he supported clients dealing with anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders. Richard’s dedication was centered on helping these individuals improve their mental health and transition to a lower level of care, whether that meant returning to their families, a board and care facility, or a sober-living environment.
Motivated by a growing passion for mental health care, Richard pursued his Registered Nurse (RN) education at Saddleback Community College and later transitioned to La Palma Intercommunity Hospital Behavioral Health. In this role, he specialized in geriatric psychiatry, working with older adults experiencing conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, dementia, depression, and anxiety. This experience solidified his commitment to mental health, leading him to work at Bellflower Community Hospital, where he provided care for patients experiencing severe psychiatric crises, including suicidal ideation, manic and depressive episodes, substance use disorders, and exacerbated schizophrenia symptoms.
Inspired by the impactful work of PMHNPs at Bellflower, Richard enrolled in the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Azusa Pacific University. To broaden his expertise, he worked full-time at College Hospital Costa Mesa while completing his studies. There, he gained comprehensive experience across various units, including adolescent, acute men’s and women’s, stabilization, and detox/med-surg. Now, as a PMHNP, Richard is committed to leveraging his diverse background and knowledge to provide compassionate, comprehensive care to those in need.
Richard currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where he is supervised by Dr. Montgomery.

Shaheena Gazipura

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC

Shaheena Gazipura is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 9 years of dedicated experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health care. She earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California.
Shaheena began her career working on an adult psychiatric inpatient unit before transitioning to the geriatric psychiatric inpatient unit at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital. In addition to her clinical work, Shaheena also serves as a Nursing Clinical Instructor, guiding the next generation of nurses through their mental health rotations at a large community college.
Shaheena is a passionate advocate for mental health, believing that it is a fundamental pillar of overall well-being. She is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and strives to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that honors each individual’s unique experiences and challenges. Her goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel empowered to work alongside her in achieving their mental health goals.
Outside of her professional life, Shaheena enjoys exploring new culinary experiences, staying active through exercise, and planning her next travel adventures.
Shaheena currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

Clint Nacar

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner -BC

Clint Nacar, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mr. Nacar graduated from Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Currently Mr. Nacar works in an inpatient psychiatry unit at a leading academic medical center in Los Angeles, Renewed Mental Health Group, and Orange Coast Psychiatry
Mr. Nacar brings over 7+ years of experience with the mental health population. He works to help patients take control of their mental health through patient education, psychotherapy and medication management. Mr. Nacar’s areas of focus include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorder, Bipolar disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Mr. Nacar treats children ages 6+, adolescents, and adults, offering both in-person services and telehealth at Renewed Mental Health Group.
With the collaboration of each patient, Mr. Nacar strives to develop individualized plans of care addressing each patient’s unique situation and concerns. He also encourages each patient to take charge of their mental health through a holistic approach while also employing the latest evidence based practices in treatment.

Clint is one of our most experienced Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is 103NP Licensed in the State of California.

Cristian Cuevas

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

Cristian Cuevas, PMHNP-BC, is a highly skilled board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over seven years of experience in inpatient psychiatry and mental health.
A California State University Long Beach graduate, Cristian also earned recognition as a board-certified psychiatric mental health registered nurse. With a wealth of expertise in adult psychiatric care across the lifespan, Cristian has successfully diagnosed and treated a diverse range of mental health disorders.
Additionally, his specialized experience in child and adolescent inpatient populations further enhances his ability to provide comprehensive and compassionate mental health care.
Cristian Cuevas is the Lead Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry and is supervised by Dr Barrios.

Griselda Hernandez

Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC (Fluent in Spanish)

As a licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a robust background in psychiatric and substance abuse nursing, Griselda provides compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. The core of her practice focuses on promoting holistic wellness, fostering resilience, and empowering patients in their recovery journey. Specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of adolescents with various mental health disorders, Griselda strives to create a therapeutic environment where patients feel valued, respected, and supported.

“My approach is grounded in years of diverse experience, including work in psychiatric units and medical detox units for both adults and adolescents. This extensive background has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to manage complex psychiatric and substance abuse conditions effectively. I am committed to staying updated with the latest advancements in psychiatric care, integrating cutting-edge therapies and best practices into my treatment plans. Collaboration is key to my practice; I work closely with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community resources to provide coordinated and comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique needs.”

Griselda holds a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Psychiatric-Mental Health from West Coast University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. Additionally, she is fluent in the English and Spanish language, enhancing her ability to connect with a diverse patient population.

Griselda currently practices as a Nurse Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Orange Coast Psychiatry, where she is supervised by Dr. Barrios.

Dr Barrios

Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Carlos Barrios is a Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist with over two decades of experience in mental health care. His expertise in telepsychiatry has allowed him to serve patients across California and beyond. In his practice, Dr Barrios integrates metabolic and functional methodologies, focusing on guiding patients toward medication independence and emphasizing the connection between physical and mental health.
Outside of his professional life, Dr Barrios is passionate about kettlebell training, which helps him maintain my physical and mental wellness. He cherishes visiting his family in Guatemala, to reconnecting with his cultural roots and rejuvenating his spirit. Dr Barrios is also deeply involved in transcendental meditation and rucking, practices that not only provide him with tranquility but also keep him grounded and connected to nature. These hobbies reflect his commitment to a holistic approach to health, both personally and professionally.