When someone has difficulty meeting or interacting with others or being in social situations, they may assume they are merely shy. In reality, the individual might have a mental health disorder that makes social interactions challenging. Anyone who thinks they might have a treatable condition should get an exact diagnosis, because the symptoms of avoidant personality disorder vs Social Anxiety can overlap. New View Wellness in Atlanta employs a highly skilled staff who provide thorough assessments to determine the specific disorder. They then design a structured treatment plan to ease symptoms and help individuals reintegrate into social life more comfortably.

What is Avoidant Personality Disorder?

To begin understanding the difference between avoidant personality disorder and social anxiety, let’s define both mental health disorders. Avoidant personality disorder makes it very difficult for a person to interact with others. People with this disorder may seem merely shy, especially as children, but they actually struggle with social interaction. Avoidant personality disorder is a type of personality disorder. Around 1.5% to 2.5% of the population has avoidant personality disorder.

Common symptoms of avoidant personality disorder include fear of being judged negatively by others, low self-esteem, and self-hatred. The individual may overreact to someone criticizing them or imagine they have been criticized when the other person had no intention of doing so. As a result of these symptoms, the person tends to avoid friendships and romantic relationships. They also often have trouble doing well in their careers or education. 

What is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder and was previously called social phobia. This disorder causes a spike in anxiety when people face social situations. Even the thought of going out with friends or attending a party can trigger anxiety and panic symptoms. About fifteen million adults in the U.S. experience social anxiety, making it more common than many realize. Initial symptoms usually begin in childhood or early teenage years, though a formal diagnosis may not occur until adulthood.

Symptoms people with social anxiety usually experience include fear of attending social activities and a tendency to isolate from others. They also commonly feel physical symptoms, such as shallow breathing, an elevated heart rate, sweating, nausea, and a fear of passing out. People with social anxiety fear meeting anyone new or being among others socially. They are scared they will do or say something embarrassing or be judged by other people. These symptoms can cause difficulty for people in maintaining relationships with friends, family, and romantic partners. It can also impact their jobs and schooling.

The Difference Between Avoidant Personality Disorder vs. Social Anxiety

When comparing avoidant personality disorder and social anxiety, one clear difference emerges. People with social anxiety usually recognize that their fear is not based in reality but stems from their anxiety disorder. This awareness can make it easier for them to start a treatment program. In contrast, people with avoidant personality disorder often believe their assumptions about how others view them are accurate. They feel inferior and think any judgment against them is fair. Treatment focuses on helping these individuals change their self-perception and recognize the inaccuracies in their thinking.

How Is Avoidant Personality Disorder vs. Social Anxiety Treated?

While definite differences exist between avoidant personality disorder and social anxiety. Several types of therapy can help people heal from these two disorders. Individual psychotherapy provides the hallmark for the treatment of mental health disorders. One-on-one discussions with a therapist help create a safe space for people to discuss their emotions and fears. And the challenges of living with poor mental health. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) teaches people to replace their negative thoughts and behavioral patterns with positive ones that decrease their symptoms. 

Psychiatry that includes the use of prescription medications can provide tremendous benefits. Results for those who struggle with avoidant personality disorder and social anxiety. Family therapy can also provide great assistance. Because it allows loved ones to become educated on how their family member feels. The therapist will direct the group in conversation and teach them the most valuable ways to help the person they love heal. Finally, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) coaches the individual to respond productively and healthily when faced with psychological distress.

Begin Quality Mental Health Treatment in Atlanta Today

Are you concerned about the symptoms you experience and wonder if you can benefit from seeking professional help?. New View Wellness in Atlanta can determine if you struggle with avoidant personality disorder, social anxiety, and create a menu of therapies designed to help you overcome the illness. We provide evidence-based therapies and any necessary prescription medications to help you learn to manage your life. We also offer treatment specifically designed to target the mental health needs of teenagers.

If you want more information on how we can help you become more comfortable with yourself and social situations, contact us now. Our staff can answer your questions and provide a free insurance verification for you.