Social Anxiety Diagnosis

[billyjohnson]

Hi,

What all does a psychiatrist actually do to diagnose you with social anxiety disorder? Like do they just talk to you and give you treatment options. Or do they have to do a bunch of like blood work?


AND, what medications are prescribed to teenagers(below 18 years old) with social anxiety disorders.

Thanks.

[RubyWitch]

As our esteemed MrGreen has so aptly put it, the process is quite simple. They reach their diagnosis simply by talking and asking questions. If for some reason, your psychiatrist thinks there may be an underlying physical reason for your anxiety, he/she MAY have you do some blood work, but they usually don't.
You can rest assured that any medication you may be prescribed will be suited to someone your age. As MrGreen said, it would be wrong for us to suggest meds to you. Your doctor will go over all your options. Be sure you ask about possible side effects...........most psychiatrists are much better at explaining those than a regular doctor, but the more you know what to expect, the better. I applaud you seeking help and hope you let us know how you're doing. There are many young people on this forum who could benefit from your experience, so I hope you will share it with us.
Peace
Greenlydia

[toejam_muncher]

there is therapy that can help, too. depends on how bad it is. a teenager may need therapy more than meds. but yeah...there's no blood work. its really not bad. infact it feels kind of good to talk to a doctor about the issue since most of us feel stupid about it. doctors see it all the time so it makes you feel more normal...or at least, hopeful.

[MrGreen]

They just ask questions and you answer them. Based on your answer they come up with their conclusions. Much like we do on here. Then they will suggest medication that they think is right for your condition. Medications work different for each of us. Some of us are more tolorant to some tablets. Others might be less so. So it would be wrong to suggest tablet names to you. You have nothing to worry about. It is an simply process. As for blood tests? If it is like a public clinic they might do some. Private ones won't. They could ask you to visit a hospital or your local gp to have your bloods done.