Group Therapy For Social Anxiety Works!

by Dr. Lindsay Kramer, psychotherapist and staff writer at The April Center For Anxiety Attack Management - Los Angeles
www.KickFear.com    

           Group therapy for those dealing with social anxiety?!  Strange as it may seem, there is a great amount of evidence that shows a social anxiety group is extremely helpful and also may be a first choice treatment option for those suffering with social anxiety.*

            I have had the privilege of working with many people of varying ages and backgrounds who struggle with this complex fear.  I know the debilitating nature that social anxiety can have over one’s experience at a job, in relationships, and in life.  I also understand the proverbial loneliness that can pervade one’s existence once victim to this anxiety disorder.  If you or someone you know suffers from social anxiety, I commend you for reading this.  I know this can be really scary, but I also realize the benefits to overcoming social anxiety far outweigh living a life of isolation and fear.

            So how do we get there?  Recent research has provided that cognitive-behavioral therapy conducted in a group format can be valuable in conquering social anxiety disorder.  It goes on to specify that group treatment may be more effective than individual treatment for social anxiety in that it allows people to practice the very interactions of which they are afraid.  Researchers also advocate for group therapy for social anxiety because it is cost effective and efficient.  This is not to say that individual treatment with a social anxiety doctor specialist does not work—it is, in fact, just as helpful, as depicted in research studies.  However, support groups for social anxiety can be a breakthrough additional treatment to offer those who struggle with fears of interaction.

            Let’s close our eyes briefly and conjure up an image of what a social anxiety group might look like.  Think of six or seven other members, all with their own trepidation and fears of social situations.  Anxiety is high—yes.  But judgment is non-existent.  Everyone is too occupied with their own internal struggles to notice anything about anyone else.  There is a trained anxiety specialist who is leading the group, gently but confidently providing support and guidance to help all members reach the shared goal of overcoming social anxiety.  This group meets once a week, always on the same day and at the same time.  There are no surprises.  Gradually, the members become familiar with the context and the environment, and they begin to look to one another for reassurance and validation.  And before you know it, interactions are occurring without the fear and worry of being judged or misperceived.  It becomes safe.  And eventually the group members are able to take what is being done in group and apply it to their personal lives.  And that is a picture of a successful support group for social anxiety.

            Could you imagine it?  Was it difficult?  My guess is that while it may have been scary, it also sparked some glimmer of hope.  That maybe this could be the answer to overpowering the fears and heartaches that comprise social anxiety disorder.  If you are looking for help, the April Center leads groups for all sorts of anxiety disorders, including a support group for social anxiety.  Lastly, if you are still reading this, I once again congratulate you for even considering seeking help.  You are one step closer to overcoming fear and leading a life filled with freedom.

*http://m.news24.com/health24/Mental-Health/News/Group-therapy-eases-social-anxiety-disorder-20131205

All the best,

DR.  KRAMER  
from The April Center For Anxiety Attack Management - Los Angeles

P. S.  Don't forget to sign up for our anxiety newsletter on our website's home page where you'll receive free anxiety tips! 

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OCD treatment boosted by support groups

by Dr. Craig April, Director of The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management - Los Angeles
www.KickFear.com

OCD treatment can be boosted by support groups.

Why is this so? A couple of reasons:

1.) OCD sufferers often experience a lot of shame.

2.) OCD sufferers often experience a lot of loneliness.

Support groups focused on OCD treatment offer a non-judgmental place where people can share their obsesions and compulsions as they work on reducing symptoms.

One very frequent topic in my OCD support groups is the neurobiology of the disorder and how shame, based on this reality, is unreasonable. Because OCD is a neurobiological disorder (part of one's brain), it is not as if an individual chooses OCD or has some weakness that creates it. To feel a lot of shame over OCD is like the diabetic feeling ashamed for having diabetes, or the handicapped person being ashamed over an inability to walk. Hearing these examples, it is easy to point out that one shouldn't feel shame in these contexts. And yet, shame is common.

Groups offer a place to work through that shame while getting support and help moving toward anxiety relief.

Loneliness is also a common experience with OCD. Groups offer the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences of anxiety and OCD.

Based on the nature of obsessions which are generally dark, catastrophic and/or perceived as inappropriate, shame and loneliness are common. However, support groups can make a huge difference for those struggling.

Follow this link for more on OCD treatment and support groups

Anxiety Support Groups: You Are Not Alone

by Dr. Craig April, Director of The April Center for Anxiety Attack Management - Los Angeles

www.KickFear.com

Anxiety support groups can be incredibly beneficial.

One of the main benefits is the opportunity to connect with others who share similar symptoms and experiences. This is not to be taken lightly for one considering participation in any anxiety support groups.

Anxiety can be a very lonely experience for the anxiety sufferer. I have heard the following quotes from so many that I have treated at my center:

"No one understands"

"They think I can just get over it, but if I knew how to I would have by now"

"He (or she) thinks it's all in my head and that I'm making it up"

"He (or she) thinks I'm weak"

. . . The list goes on and on.

Anxiety support groups give the gift of talking to others who truly understand. And then there is the support and encouragement received as individuals of the group make great leaps in progress. Not only is the experience supportive, but others are inspired to face more of their anxiety as they learn skills and strategies.

Follow this link for more on anxiety support groups

Support Groups and Anxiety Reduction

Support groups (specifically those with a cognitive-behavioral therapy focus) can be one of the most effective forms of treatment for anxiety disorders for a variety of reasons:

1.) They offer proof that you are not alone in your anxiety struggles, which can go a long way in reducing shame over your symptoms.

2.) They offer encouragement and support.

3.) Discussion in group can set you on the path towards freedom from your anxiety as you begin to face your fears.

4.) For some, group therapy can bring more commitment to completing anxiety reduction homework assignments.

Anxiety support groups can be a powerful and effective way to reduce your anxiety so consider joining one to make great progress!

Follow this link for more info on support groups