The various anxiety disorders can be a complicated few topics to decipher. One of the most common concerns we hear from clients is whether they’re experiencing social anxiety or anxiety in general or Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Though both are common presentations of anxiety, they manifest in different ways and may require different approaches for effective treatment. Understanding the distinctions between the two can help you find the right path to growth and healing.

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Overview:
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is characterized by a fear of being judged in social situations. This anxiety can lead to significant discomfort in various social settings and avoiding social events altogether. SAD can be so debilitating that it affects relationships, sense of self, and socio-occupational functioning.

Some Symptoms:

Intense or overwhelming worry about upcoming social events
A disproportionate level of fear of being negatively evaluated or embarrassed Physical symptoms such as sweating, shaking, or a racing heart
Avoidance of social situations, such as parties, get togethers, or public speaking.

Key Takeaway:
SAD is a situational anxious response typically triggered by social situations and interactions or public speaking. The anxiety revolves around the fear of being observed or judged by others.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Overview:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a wide range of everyday situations. At times, the triggering event may be difficult to identify. Unlike social anxiety, GAD isn’t limited to social contexts.

Some Symptoms:

Continuous and excessive worry about various aspects of life (work, health, relationships, etc.)
Trouble relaxing or concentrating
Physical symptoms such as shortness of breath, muscle tension, nausea, and sleep disturbances
Tendency to catastrophize and imagine worst-case scenarios
Disrupted day-to-day functioning

Key Difference:
GAD manifests in many areas of life and is often present on a day-to-day basis. The anxiety is often generalized, with no specific trigger like in social anxiety.

Key Differences Between Social Anxiety and Generalized Anxiety

Focus of Anxiety: SAD focuses on social interactions, while GAD covers a wide range of everyday concerns.
Triggers: Social anxiety is triggered by social events, while GAD can be triggered by nearly any part of life.
Duration: SAD tends to rise and fall around social events, while GAD is a more constant, low-level worry.

How Therapy Can Help

Both social anxiety and generalized anxiety can be effectively treated with individual outpatient therapy sessions. Everyone’s experience with treatment is unique so a therapist can work with you to help you identify the best path forward.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- explore how to shift your thought patterns and modify your behaviors to learn healthy ways to challenge your anxious patterns.

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)- learn healthy and efficient coping strategies such as acceptance, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation skills to better navigate anxiety.

Exposure Response Prevention (ERP)- gradually expose yourself to your anxieties and fears to help your mind and body better tolerate them and gain confidence in your ability to manage your anxieties.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)- a therapeutic approach that views the mind as containing multiple sub-personalities or "parts," including wounded "exiles" and protective "managers" and "firefighters." The goal of IFS therapy is to help people access their compassionate "Self" to heal and harmonize such as anxiety disorders.

Somatic Therapies and Mindfulness - through meditative and somatic practices, explore how the mind body connection plays a role in responding to anxiety triggers.

If you're unsure which type of anxiety you’re experiencing, or if you need support in managing your anxiety, we’re here to help. Reach out today to start your journey toward relief and recovery.

Our therapists specialize in anxiety work. Have a look at their profiles and see who may fit.