Questions in the Mental Health Forum have been answered by Roger L. Gould, M.D., affiliated with U.C.L.A. and by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Question Title: Anxiety vs. HTN & IBS

Forum: The Mental Health Forum
Topic: Anxiety


I seem to experience anxiety whenever I'm in the presence of someone who I feel is better than me in someway. They either have a higher education than I have, hold a high position in the community, higher income, etc. I tell myself that I'm being ridiculous and I shouldn't react in this way. One symptom of my anxiety is hypertension and now I feel I've developed irritable bowel syndrome because of it. I would like to get this under control so it doesn't affect my physical well being.

I've been to a physcologist for a problem that we had with my son. It seemed that all we did was talk about anything and everything, but the problem was never really taken care of. My husband made me stop going as he said it was "expensive" talk.

I would appreciate any direction you could give me to try to get this under control.

Dear Jean,

The experiencing of anxiety in the presence of others, and fear that you will be ridiculed may be suggestive of a disorder called Social Phobia, also called Social Anxiety Disorder. People with this disorder have marked and persistent fear of one or more social or performance situations. Individuals fear that they will be humiliated or embarrassed. This disorder is the third most common psychiatric disorder, and is very treatable. People respond well to psychotherapy and medications, especially the antidepressants called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI's).

I hope you find this information helpful. It is provided for educational purposes only, and should not replace consultation with your doctor. Henry Ford Behavioral Services provides confidential evaluation and treatment, available by calling (313) 874-6680 for an appointment.

*Keywords: social phobia, social anxiety, SSRI

 

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