Social Phobia, Social Anxiety - Social Phobia and Social Anxiety Definition

Written by HealthyPlace.com Staff Writer

David: Dr. Linquist's website is: http://www.delete.com for those of you who want more info on the Delete method. Dr. Linquist can help you with that over the phone.

I'm also wondering if from social phobia one can develop agoraphobia?

Dr. Linquist: Absolutely! Phobias grow unless they are pulled out...stomped on...blown up...or DELETED!

Agoraphobia is usually a combination of several phobias.

David: Here are two similar questions about EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing):

nadineSeattle: Can you explain in more detail what EMDR is?

Amber13: Can this EMDR help other phobias, as it does with social phobia? How does it work and where can one go for it?

Dr. Linquist: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR, has a web site. In there, you will find an additional explanation of EMDR. Also you will be referred to a clinician (you might be referred to me, because I'm certified to do EMDR).

There are also various EMDR books (like this, but you can search for more) available.

Depends on the therapist and client, as to whether EMDR works for phobias.

WhatsUp 75766858http: I'm visually challenged and I'm self-conscious about my social skills and to some people I'm different. How do I improve my social skills?

Dr. Linquist: Get a mentor or femtor to teach you about social skills. This person would go with you to social places and practice with you. A good friend might be just the support for that.

lbzorro80: I am a pianist and suffer from performance anxiety. My heart races, my legs go weak, and my hands tremble. This severely hinders my performance. I have tried breathing techniques and positive thinking and nothing helps. I can't afford therapy. Any help?

Dr. Linquist: Yes, the breathing and positive thinking are great ---and you are right--- not enough. It's like having a bunch of wonderful new red apples, then you put them in a barrel with a bunch of old rotting apples, and you know what's going to happen. The stinking thinking will come up and spoil your affirmations.

You can't afford therapy? Can you afford not to afford therapy? Play the piano more and earn some bucks. There are many resources that have a sliding scale; for instance, your county mental health center, or try a local medical school where they psychiatric residents work at a significantly reduced fee.

sordid_goddess: I have had Separation Anxiety Disorder (S.A.D.) for over two years now, but was only recently diagnosed. After being put first on Paxil, then trying Effexor, I gave up on both and decided to try mind over matter. Do you suggest this? Because ironically, I am doing 100x better now than when I was taking anything. I am pretty much recovering from S.A.D. solely from talking to mentors and using mind over matter, but I am still very dependant on others to go places with me. Is there anything I can try that will ease me away from being so reliant? (I'm 17, by the way).

Dr. Linquist: Hey---you're doing great. You are using your very powerful mind successfully. Congratulations! Give yourself some time to become very solid in your new recovery, then think about taking the next step.

TIPCrys: Are there certain other disorders that seem to have a high correlation with social phobia? If so, what major complications usually have to be dealt with?

Dr. Liuistnq: WOW, that's an 'open the book and let all the disorders fall out' question. The physical symptoms and conditions of stress are the major complications.

Catrina: Do you think Gestalt Therapy could be a good challenge for someone with social phobia?

Dr. Linquist: Sure. Again, it depends on you and the therapist.

David: I want to thank Dr. Linquist for being our guest tonight and answering everyone's questions. For more information on Dr. Linquist and the Delete technique, you can visit her website at: http://www.delete.com.

I also want to thank everyone in the audience for coming and participating. I hope you found it helpful.

Thanks again Dr. Linquist.

Dr. Linquist: You are welcome.

David: Good night everyone.

Disclaimer: We are not recommending or endorsing any of the suggestions of our guest. In fact, we strongly encourage you to talk over any therapies, remedies or suggestions with your doctor BEFORE you implement them or make any changes in your treatment.

If you haven't been on the main HealthyPlace.com site yet, I invite you to take a look. There are over 10,000 pages of content.

Good night everyone.

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