Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is extremely common in children and teens. This distressing disorder makes everyday social interactions difficult and can severely affect a child’s emotional wellbeing, relationships, and academic performance. While social anxiety cannot simply be ‘snapped out of’, there are various evidence-based strategies and support systems that can help children better manage their symptoms and thrive.
Recognizing Symptoms
Children with social anxiety tend to experience intense self-consciousness and fear of judgment in social settings. According to the good folk at Aspire Psychological, based out of New Jersey, this can often lead to avoidance of interactions that may trigger anxiety, such as speaking up in class, attending parties, making phone calls, or playing on sports teams. Physiological symptoms are also common, including panic attacks characterized by a racing heart, trembling, dizziness, and trouble breathing.Â
Social anxiety is different from everyday shyness and becomes problematic when it constantly interferes with a child’s functioning. Parents noticing symptoms like emotional distress over minor social situations, trouble making friends, plummeting grades, ongoing stomachaches or headaches, or refusal to attend school should consider an evaluation with a mental health professional.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Once diagnosed, the first-line treatment approach is typically cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), either one-on-one or in a group setting. CBT helps children recognize irrational negative thoughts that fuel their anxiety. A therapist then works with the child to challenge unhelpful thoughts and replaces them with more positive statements. Children also gradually face anxiety-provoking situations while practicing calming techniques, allowing them to build confidence.Â
Building a Support System
In addition to professional treatment, it is vital that children have strong emotional support to overcome social anxiety. Parents play an invaluable role through validating their child’s struggles while expressing loving encouragement. Allowing children to open up without judgment and consistently reassuring them builds trust and confidence. Parents can also advocate for accommodations at school, such as serving as the primary contact person rather than having the anxious child meet directly with teachers.Â
Peer support also provides a safety net for socially anxious children. Getting to know just a few accepting classmates helps children feel less lonely. Parents might encourage starting with peers who share similar interests or struggles. Teachers also offer essential support through preferential classroom seating, minimizing potential social embarrassments, and checking in privately with the child.
Medication ManagementÂ
In moderate-to-severe cases, antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be prescribed in combination with therapy. These medications can help take the edge off anxiety and make it more manageable while children work to overcome fearful thought patterns. Though not a long-term solution alone, medication speeds progress when integrated thoughtfully into a broader treatment approach. Doctors, therapists, and parents closely monitor effectiveness and side effects to ensure children’s health. Starting low, going slow and finding the most compatible medication reduces risks. While no parent wants their child to take psychiatric meds, these are a valuable tool when needed.
Conclusion
The difficulties of social anxiety often set in motion a negative cycle, where avoidance of social situations interferes with learning vital interpersonal skills. This only worsens anxiety over time. The good news is that cognitive-based therapy directly addresses this cycle, while medication assists with physiological symptoms when necessary.Â
With consistent effort, patience and support, children can get onto a positive trajectory where they make friends, speaking up confidently in class, attending parties and building healthy self-esteem. If you suspect your child suffers from social anxiety disorder, the most critical first step is seeking professional support. This gives access to vital tools to help ease distress both now and down the road.