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.
