Social Anxiety Disorder Case Studies

Case Study 2
Clara, a client with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) as diagnosed under DSM-V. (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Aetiology
Studies conclude that biological, psychological and social factors contribute to the onset of SAD. Five aetiological factors are proposed by Wong & Rapee (2016). These factors include: inherited tendencies such as shyness and avoidant temperaments, parent behaviours towards verbalising risk in social situations, peer experiences with teasing, traumatic or change in life events and cultures that require society members to adhere to ‘societal norms’. SAD can often be comorbid with other mental health issues including depression, substance use and other anxiety disorders (Spence & Rapee, 2016; American Psychiatric

While this cannot be determined as the only cause, it is most certainly a contributing factor. Her temperament may also have contributed. Clara began to feel isolated because she found it difficult to make friends in her area. It is most likely a societal norm to have friends in your area and the fact that Clara finds it difficult to do so may be leading to her SAD symptoms. Clara’s symptoms include isolation, fear or “dread” of social situations to the extent that causes panic attacks and avoidance. Clara isolates herself in her house and avoids social interaction. It is clear that Clara is avoiding such settings due to her embarrassment and fear of experiencing anxiety symptoms i.e. repeated panic attacks in public. Perhaps appropriate treatment for the individual would be Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to challenge her negative thinking and fears around social settings. (Cara, 2013). A psychologist may also prescribe SSRIs or venlafaxine with the aim to decrease the level of arousal and anxiety felt by the individual (Cara, 2013; Canton, Scott & Glue, 2012). Mindfulness-Based Therapy may be used as treatment for Clara as a relaxation tool in social settings to try and avoid panic attacks (Cara, 2013). With combined treatment of Exposure Therapy and Social Skills Training Clara may be able to experience social interaction with a tolerable level of anxiety. The combination of these two treatments has been proven beneficial for individuals with SAD (Beidel, Alfano, Kofler, Rao, Scharfstein, Sarver, 2014). With these treatments and help from an OT Clara has a 50% chance of recovery within the next few years (APA,