Social Anxiety Disorder

iVillage Member
Registered: 11-21-2004
Social Anxiety Disorder
2
Fri, 05-19-2006 - 1:31am

I think that I may have social anxiety disorder. I have been a very "shy" person my whole life. My "shyness" has gotten better over the years however I am still a very anxious and nervous person. I didn't participate in my high school graduation ceremony because I hate being up in front of people in the absolute worst way. When my husband and were first dating I wouldn't eat in front of him for the first 6 mos or so, I would drop a class in college if the syllabus said the word "presentation." This is something that I have dealt with my whole life.

I got married this past December. I didn't know how I was going to be able to stand in front of everyone at the altar. The fear was so bad I was diagnosed with panic attacks. I told my general practioner how I have been nervous basically my whole life and how I was basically flipping out about the actual wedding ceremony itself. She put me on Lexapro once a day and xanax as needed.It did get me through my wedding thank goodness.

The medication does help but it doesn't take it all away. I still get very nervous,etc. I have not formally been diganosed with social anxiety disorder but after reading what seems to be like hundreds of articles on it I firmly believe that I do have the disorder. I match 9 out of 10 symptoms. Currently I have no mental health insurance coverage nor can I afford to seek out psychiatric care uninsured. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions, experiences, thoughts,etc on this. It would be of great help.

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Fri, 05-19-2006 - 8:40am

Hello! It's nice to see you:) Please remember that you are NOT alone. Many people who post here have stories to tell much like yours. When you have the time, read the posts that others have shared.


We cannot diagnose you. That can only be done by a medical professional. You have a history with your family dr. & he knows what you have experienced. Nowadays he can make that diagnosis. From what info is available meds & therapy in combination is the most successful way to treat this disorder. I understand about your situation & know that both meds & therapy can be low or even no cost if you're in a situation where you can't pay. Your doctor can give you samples of meds

 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Fri, 05-19-2006 - 10:04am

Hi and welcome :)

Sheri Ann