Understanding Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions For Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric condition, affecting 12.1% of adults in the United States over the course of their lives. Moreover, SAD is associated with substantial distress and functional impairment. Effective treatments for SAD have been developed, yet only one-third of adults with SAD in the US receive mental health treatment for the disorder. In this article, we aim to expand awareness of an effective intervention for SAD by providing an overview of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), including the theory behind this frontline psychosocial intervention and its primary treatment components. Clinical implications, including the role of the full treatment team (eg, psychiatrist, psychologist) in supporting a successful course of CBT for SAD, will be discussed.