[Raghib Ahmed]

Hello everyone,

I came across this article about a recently published (Sep 26th 2014) study/meta-analysis on social anxiety interventions.

The study reviewed research between 1988 to 2013 and analysed the effects of various social anxiety interventions. The participants size was 13,164 so it's pretty significant.

Basically the study reveals that CBT is more effective and beneficial for treating social anxiety, than meds like anti-depressants (which are also effective in their own right).

Meds tend to have side effects and the benefits tend to wear off after discontinuation, whereas CBT's benefits are long-lasting.

So I thought I'd just share this info for anyone who isn't sure about CBT or doesn't know what treatments to consider. I'm not a doctor or anything though so bear that in mind. Meds are still useful, and may even be more suitable for some people. Talk with a doctor or someone who knows what they're talking about before trying any sort of intervention.

However, if you haven't ever tried CBT then it is definitely something to consider and look into.

At the very least, it's comforting to know that progress is being made with what we know about mental health and how to treat it. Significant studies like this one will pave the way for more advancements and progress in terms of treatment. So try your best to stay hopeful that there is, or will be a way for you to get better.

[Raghib Ahmed]

The link to the study in the article is currently broken, so here's a direct link to the study if you are curious: Psychological and pharmacological interventions for social anxiety disorder in adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis : The Lancet Psychiatry

[blueheelerlove]

Interesting article, thanks for sharing.

[Raghib Ahmed]

No problem