I have social anxiety- what type of doctor should I see?

Question

I have social anxiety. Help me please I start college in a month and if I don’t get anything soon ima fail I can’t talk at all with classes much less do presentations. What type of doctor should I see?

Answer

It’s understandable that you’re feeling anxious about starting college and having to do presentations. Social anxiety can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, but there are things you can do to manage it and feel more comfortable.

First, it’s important to speak with a mental health professional about your concerns. They can help you identify the root causes of your anxiety and provide you with strategies for managing it. There are a few different types of mental health professionals who can help with social anxiety, including:

• Psychologists: Psychologists are trained in the study of the mind and behavior. They can provide therapy to help you understand and manage your anxiety.
• Psychiatrists: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health. They can provide therapy and may also prescribe medication if necessary.
• Licensed mental health counselors: Mental health counselors are trained to provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. They can help you develop coping strategies for managing your anxiety.

It’s important to find a mental health professional who you feel comfortable with and who you can trust. You may need to see a few different professionals before you find the right fit. It’s also a good idea to speak with your primary care doctor or a school counselor for recommendations on where to find a mental health professional in your area.

In the meantime, there are some things you can try to help manage your social anxiety:

• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can all help you manage anxiety in the moment.
• Set achievable goals: Start small and work your way up to more challenging situations. This can help build your confidence and make you feel more comfortable.
• Challenge negative thoughts: It’s common for people with social anxiety to have negative thoughts about themselves and social situations. Try to identify and challenge these thoughts, replacing them with more realistic and positive ones.
• Get support: It can be helpful to talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your anxiety. They can offer support and help you feel less alone.

I hope this information is helpful. Remember, it’s normal to feel anxious at times, but it’s important to seek help if your anxiety is affecting your daily life. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for support.

If you need more support for stress, anxiety and depression, please consider the following solutions: