“Can social anxiety disorder be fixed?”

YES! It depends on the cause of the social anxiety and how it is addressed but the short answer is yes. Many people on the autistic spectrum struggle with social anxiety and it could be related to poor communication skills (verbal or nonverbal), difficulty empathizing or understanding the intentions of others, some may have had traume that leads to social anxiety, some are overstimulated by lights/sounds and they are afraid of reacting in front of others, some are afraid of having physical pain or illness while in a group and having to explain why to leave politiely so they avoid social situation, etc. The cause should be identified first to know how to address it. There is always help with correct diagosis :) Typical treatments might include: improving communication skills, exposure therapies, systematic desensitization, medications, etc.

The short answer is, Yes Absolutely!

Drawing from my experience in psychological work, social anxiety disorder (SAD) can be managed and even significantly improved with the right approaches, though the term “fixed” may not fully capture the nature of this condition. Social anxiety is deeply rooted in one’s thoughts, experiences, and social learning, so while some individuals may experience complete relief of symptoms, for others, it may be more about achieving substantial improvement and long-term management.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective approaches for managing SAD, as it targets the irrational beliefs and thought patterns that often fuel anxiety in social settings. Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, gradually helps individuals confront their fears in a controlled manner, reducing avoidance behaviors and helping them build resilience.

Moreover, some clients find relief with medication, particularly when symptoms are severe. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for SAD and can support clients by stabilizing mood and reducing anxiety levels enough to engage more fully in therapeutic interventions. However, the integration of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly medication is generally more effective than medication alone.

For adolescents and young adults—ages where I’ve observed a strong need for guidance—education on social anxiety and fostering safe, supportive environments can make a huge difference. Early intervention, parental involvement, and positive social interactions can also play significant roles in improving outcomes. While SAD may not always disappear entirely, individuals can develop the tools needed to live fulfilling, connected lives despite it.

It can be managed with therapy and or medication

The duration of alcohol addiction treatment can vary widely depending on individual needs, the severity of the addiction, and the type of treatment chosen. Here’s an overview of the typical stages and timelines:

1. Detox (5-7 days)
For people with moderate to severe alcohol dependence, medical detox is often the first step. Detox typically lasts 5-7 days, but some may need more or less time.
During this time, symptoms of withdrawal are managed under medical supervision.
2. Inpatient Treatment (28-90 days)
Inpatient or residential treatment usually lasts between 28 and 90 days. In these programs, patients receive intensive therapy, counseling, and support in a structured environment.
Shorter stays of around 28 days are common, but some people benefit from longer programs of 60 or 90 days if the addiction is severe or if there are co-occurring mental health issues.
3. Outpatient Treatment (3 months to a year or more)
Outpatient treatment, which allows individuals to live at home and attend treatment sessions, can last from several months to a year or more.
Outpatient care often follows inpatient treatment but can also be a standalone approach, particularly if the addiction is less severe.
Sessions can include individual therapy, group therapy, family counseling, and support groups like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous).
4. Aftercare and Ongoing Support (Indefinite)
Recovery from alcohol addiction is often considered a lifelong journey. Aftercare, which can include regular counseling, 12-step meetings, and peer support groups, may continue indefinitely to help prevent relapse.
Many people attend support meetings or therapy for years as a way to maintain sobriety and build a support network.
Encouraging your friend to discuss treatment options with a medical provider or addiction specialist can help tailor a program to their specific needs. They may also benefit from trying different treatments to see what works best for them.

Maybe not 'fixed' as in the sense of being completely cured, but social anxiety can be effectively managed and treated by means of consulting with a healthcare provider, psychotherapy, medication management, support groups, and even some self-help strategies that focus on mindfulness, relaxation, and exposure therapy techniques. Viola Borden, LPC, LMHC

Yes. It can be fixed with therapy sessions.
However, we would need you to collaborate with the therapist for a successful result .

I’ve definitely seen improvement in social anxiety disorder through various modalities including: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, LifeSpan Integration, Lens and Infralow Neurofeedback, Mindfulness and Breath worth, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We can reduce anxiety by changing our thoughts, our sensations, our emotions, and our brain waves. Lots of ways to go about change, and you have to decide what would work best for you. If something doesn’t work, try another approach. Don’t give up.

Social anxiety treatment often combines therapy, medication, and self-help strategies, tailored to each individuals needs. Heres a breakdown of effective treatment options:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is the most researched and effective therapy for social anxiety. It helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their anxiety. Exposure Therapy, a subset of CBT, involves gradually facing feared social situations to reduce anxiety over time. This could start with low-anxiety situations and progress as confidence builds.
2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) ACT encourages accepting anxiety as part of life and focuses on engaging in meaningful activities, even with anxiety present. It helps people live more aligned with their values rather than being limited by fears.
3. Medication Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline or paroxetine are commonly prescribed for social anxiety. They help balance serotonin levels, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Beta-blockers (such as propranolol) can be helpful for short-term management of performance-based anxiety, such as public speaking. Benzodiazepines may be used in the short term, though they are typically prescribed with caution due to potential dependency.
4. Mindfulness Meditation and Relaxation Techniques Mindfulness practices teach individuals to stay present and reduce anxious thoughts. Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization can help manage anxiety in the moment.
5. Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care Regular Exercise: Physical activity can lower anxiety levels by releasing endorphins and improving mood. Sleep and Diet: Good sleep hygiene and a balanced diet support mental health and reduce overall anxiety. Reducing Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can increase anxiety symptoms, so moderating intake may be beneficial.

Nelson Handal MD