Social Anxiety Disorder
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| 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.

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
Hi and welcome :)
Sheri Ann