General Tips for Caregivers

• Realize that if someone has just received a diagnosis of social anxiety disorder, he or she may feel a mixture of emotions. There may be relief at finally having a word for the problem, or there may be anger and frustration over the years of suffering, when no one knew what was wrong or how to help. Remember that all these feelings are OK.
• Remember that it’s not possible to reason away social anxiety any more than it is to reason away a broken leg. If people could simply "snap out of it," they would’ve already done so.
• Maintain a positive mental attitude. Social anxiety disorder is real and serious, but it’s not irreversible. Several effective treatment options now exist. There is every reason for hope.
• Encourage your loved one to follow his or her treatment plan. For example, medication should be taken according to a doctor’s instructions. It should not be discontinued abruptly.
• Learn as much as you can about social anxiety disorder. Having a good understanding of the disorder will help you feel more in control and better able to help your loved one.
• Provide support, listening and feedback, but avoid minimizing the problem or offering quick solutions.
• Keep in mind that change is possible, but that it doesn’t happen quickly. Try to be patient.
• Praise all efforts - even those that might seem small.