Social anxiety disorder, Psychiatry FAQ

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How to Interact Effectively with Individuals Facing Social Anxiety and Panic Disorders

How to properly interact with individuals who have social anxiety and panic disorder? Dear Dr. Chang, I have a younger relative staying at my home for an extended period. He is currently a PGY2 resident and is working alongside you. However, there are some issues concerning him,...


Dr. Zhang Gengjia Reply:
From your letter, it is clear that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to issues related to interpersonal sensitivity and interaction. These concerns involve specialized treatment modalities, including pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. I strongly encourage you to se...

[Read More] How to Interact Effectively with Individuals Facing Social Anxiety and Panic Disorders


Can a Doctor Diagnose Mental Health Issues You Can't Discuss?

I'm not sure if a doctor's visit can reveal that? Thank you, doctor, for answering my questions last time. Regarding my previous inquiry, I would like to ask again. I don't feel comfortable discussing my issues with my parents because I'm afraid that if I tell...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: You mentioned that "hiccups, hand tremors, sweating, dry heaving, facial flushing, and a blank mind" only occur in specific situations, which you previously described as "being on stage, performing, facing a crowd, or speaking with unfamiliar or unknown indi...

[Read More] Can a Doctor Diagnose Mental Health Issues You Can't Discuss?


Understanding Anxiety and Physical Symptoms in Adolescents: A Guide

Is there any specific condition? Hello Doctor: I have three questions I would like to ask you, as I am unsure why I am experiencing these issues. 1. I am currently a third-year music student, and I have been experiencing hiccups for over a year. I visited a gastroenterologist w...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: Q1. I am currently a student in the third year of junior high school music class. I have been experiencing hiccups for over a year, but after visiting a gastroenterologist, I was told that my stomach is fine. The doctor prescribed medication, but it didn't help. Som...

[Read More] Understanding Anxiety and Physical Symptoms in Adolescents: A Guide


Can Social Anxiety Disorder Co-Occur with Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Can social anxiety disorder co-occur with autism spectrum disorder? Hello, doctor! I am a 23-year-old individual diagnosed with moderate autism (diagnostic code: F84.0) who has verbal communication skills and emotional issues that need to be addressed. I exhibit aggressive behavi...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello, Q1: Can social anxiety disorder co-occur with autism spectrum disorder? A1: "Social anxiety disorder" has been renamed from "social phobia" in the DSM-5. There are significant differences in essence between "social anxiety disorder" and &qu...

[Read More] Can Social Anxiety Disorder Co-Occur with Autism Spectrum Disorder?


Finding Hope: Navigating Depression and Mental Health Challenges

Will I really get better? Hello Doctor, I have been diagnosed with depression or persistent depressive disorder, and I have a history of social anxiety disorder which has since resolved. Recently, my physician suspects I may have hypomania. Although I am relatively young, my medi...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Eunice: Thank you for your hard work! From your situation, it seems that you really need a stable doctor-patient relationship so that the physician can understand your condition and provide you with the most suitable treatment. If you frequently change doctors (even if it&#...

[Read More] Finding Hope: Navigating Depression and Mental Health Challenges


Overcoming Social Anxiety and OCD: A Path to Confidence and Independence

Social anxiety, fear of riding, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)? Dear Dr. Wu, My son is nearly 30 years old and belongs to a vulnerable group. He has poor expressive abilities and social difficulties. At the age of four, his developmental assessment showed that his "env...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Online users may consider pharmacological treatment to reduce anxiety. If medication is not acceptable, they may also consider seeking psychological therapy or relaxation training at a hospital or mental health clinic. Dr. Wu Enliang.

[Read More] Overcoming Social Anxiety and OCD: A Path to Confidence and Independence


Overcoming Severe Anxiety: Strategies for Public Speaking Success

Severe anxiety Hello, Doctor! I've been struggling with anxiety for a long time. Whenever I have to give a presentation or speak in public, I start feeling anxious weeks in advance. In the nights leading up to the event, I often can't sleep. Even though I've practi...


Dr. Huang Zhijia Reply:
Hello: The more you care, the more anxious you become; the more anxious you are, the worse the situation gets, leading to a vicious cycle of increased concern. Practicing not to care is easier said than done; it is advisable to engage in other interesting activities to distract y...

[Read More] Overcoming Severe Anxiety: Strategies for Public Speaking Success


Exploring Treatment Options for Social Anxiety and Emotional Distress

What kind of treatment should I seek? (What should I do?) Since childhood, I have felt uncomfortable interacting with everyone except my mother and sister, suppressing my true thoughts. Now that I'm in high school, this issue has become increasingly severe. My life is misera...


Dr. Liang Sunyuan Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described may indicate social anxiety disorder. Seeking medical treatment or psychological counseling could improve the situation, but it requires more patience, as alleviating anxiety takes time. If you are considering hypnosis as a treatment option, it i...

[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for Social Anxiety and Emotional Distress


Struggles with Mental Health: My Brother's Reluctance for Counseling

My brother is unwilling to seek psychological counseling? The situation is as follows: In September 2021, my younger brother (the youngest) just started high school. After a few weeks, he suddenly changed his demeanor, expressing to my parents that he didn't want to go to sc...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: The situation described for the younger brother includes a combination of social withdrawal, school refusal, excessive internet use, and gaming addiction. External influences may include academic pressure from school, family issues, and interpersonal relationship problems....

[Read More] Struggles with Mental Health: My Brother's Reluctance for Counseling


Overcoming Communication Barriers: Understanding Mental Health Challenges

Impairment in daily communication with others? Hello doctor, I experienced relational bullying during my childhood, and this may be the reason (or it could be innate) for the following issues: 1. I feel uncomfortable with physical touch, such as handshakes or getting my hair cut,...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
It is highly likely that netizens may be experiencing social anxiety disorder, according to Dr. Wu En-Liang.

[Read More] Overcoming Communication Barriers: Understanding Mental Health Challenges


Is It Social Anxiety or Just My Personality?

Social anxiety or a personality trait? Since entering the workforce, I have mostly worked alone in a retail environment. Due to long working hours, I have few friends aside from my family, but I have no issues interacting with customers. Recently, I have noticed a strong aversion...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: Everyone has a different personality; some people are naturally extroverted, enjoy meeting new friends, and thrive on social interactions, while others are more introverted and prefer solitude. "Anxiety" is a common experience for everyone. When we face uncertain...

[Read More] Is It Social Anxiety or Just My Personality?


Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder: Symptoms, Impact, and Solutions

Social Anxiety Disorder Hello Doctor, I have had social anxiety since childhood, and I often experience the following issues: 1. I hesitate to greet people or speak too softly, so others can't hear me, which makes me feel rude. 2. I dislike social settings, which make me ver...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, (1) Could this be social anxiety disorder? I have taken related online tests and the results indicate moderate social anxiety disorder. A: It is possible that it is social anxiety disorder. (2) Should I see a doctor or seek psychological counseling? A: If it is very distre...

[Read More] Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder: Symptoms, Impact, and Solutions


Seeking Help: Overcoming Social Anxiety as a College Student

Please give me some advice, doctor? Hello, Doctor. I am currently a university student, and I have noticed some issues that I would like your advice on: 1. Since I study in a different city, I live off-campus and rent a place. I often find myself pressing my ear against the door...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, everyone: It's perfectly fine to be introverted and enjoy a solitary lifestyle. However, if this leads to distress in daily life, it may indicate social anxiety disorder, which would require medical attention or psychological treatment. Dr. Wu Enliang

[Read More] Seeking Help: Overcoming Social Anxiety as a College Student


Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder: A Student's Struggle and Solutions

Social Anxiety Disorder Hello, doctor. I am currently a high school sophomore. I have a naturally introverted personality and tend to be quiet around strangers, but I didn't experience panic until three years ago when a close friend, whom I relied on, transferred schools. Si...


Dr. Wu Menghuan Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to visit a child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient clinic to discuss with a physician, including differential diagnosis, types of medications being taken, their effects, and side effects; additionally, you can also discuss with the physician about refe...

[Read More] Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder: A Student's Struggle and Solutions


Understanding Social Anxiety and Depression: A Patient's Journey

Anxiety disorders and depression? Hello, doctor. I have severe social anxiety that prevented me from finishing college, and I have been too afraid to look for a job. I don't want my family to know, so I've been pretending to go to work every day and returning home in th...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello Lily: Based on your description, it is indeed important to consider the possibility of depression. Lexapro and Effexor are both antidepressants that can improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, and panic when taken at effective therapeutic doses. However, the dosages of bot...

[Read More] Understanding Social Anxiety and Depression: A Patient's Journey


Understanding Medication Options for Social Anxiety and Depression

Medication Consultation for Social Anxiety and Depression Hello, doctor. I have been suffering from severe social anxiety disorder for many years and have been too afraid to go out to work. I also experience chronic mental disarray and have difficulty concentrating. I feel that I...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, online friend: Because I didn't finish college and have no interests or specialties, I feel scared to go out and look for a job, constantly avoiding reality. Every time I go for a follow-up appointment, I'm afraid the doctor thinks I'm not making an effort t...

[Read More] Understanding Medication Options for Social Anxiety and Depression


Understanding Social Anxiety and Depression: When to Seek Help

Social Anxiety Disorder, Depressive Tendencies Hello, doctor. I have a question that has been troubling me for a long time. I tend to be overly concerned about how others perceive me, and I really dislike being the center of attention. When I walk down the street, I often look do...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hi there! It seems that you may be experiencing social anxiety disorder, and you might also have symptoms of depression; however, a definitive diagnosis can only be made through an evaluation by a psychiatrist. Beyond the diagnosis, what is truly important is understanding the un...

[Read More] Understanding Social Anxiety and Depression: When to Seek Help


Struggling with Social Interaction: Understanding Anxiety and Dependence

Struggling to adapt to social interactions? I am very dependent on my parents. I have attended classes to learn workplace skills, but I always end up leaving early during the final sessions. I feel uncomfortable interacting with others and often fear when people talk to me. Somet...


Dr. Lin Mianzhang Reply:
Hello, Your situation indeed resembles social anxiety disorder; however, a definitive diagnosis must be made by a physician after a consultation with you. If it is social anxiety disorder, both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy can be effective, and studies have shown that comb...

[Read More] Struggling with Social Interaction: Understanding Anxiety and Dependence


Understanding Relapses in Depression and Anxiety: A Personal Journey

Feeling depressed and anxious has relapsed again? A few months ago, I started experiencing emotional decline due to interpersonal and family issues, as well as academic problems, which led to self-harm. I sought help from a mental health specialist and was diagnosed with depressi...


Dr. Yan Congyou Reply:
Dear Lili, Based on your description, it appears to be a complex situation that requires a definitive diagnosis and a discussion of treatment options such as medication, psychotherapy, or family therapy. I would recommend that you establish a regular and stable follow-up with a ...

[Read More] Understanding Relapses in Depression and Anxiety: A Personal Journey


Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms from Paroxetine: Muscle Pain Explained

Withdrawal symptoms from Buprenorphine? Hello Doctor: I have been taking Paroxetine for about two years due to social anxiety disorder. Recently, my living conditions and social interactions have improved, so I have been gradually tapering off the medication in coordination with ...


Dr. Wu Enliang Reply:
Hello, netizen: Muscle soreness is generally unrelated to the discontinuation of this medication. Symptoms that typically occur after sudden cessation include those similar to a cold, headaches, and anxiety. Dr. Wu En-liang.

[Read More] Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms from Paroxetine: Muscle Pain Explained


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