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Old 09-27-2010, 09:55 AM
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Default Social Phobia Case Any Advice?

A mother on another forum I visit has asked for advice about her 29 year old son who has chronic social phobia anxiety. Any advice ?

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My son has severe social phobia and anxiety he is 29 and married. So bad that he cannot work or attend classes. We have gone through all the AD's Klonopin, xanax you name it.

He is currently off all meds and was trying to go to school again and due to the anxiety he could not think. He was more or less frozen in fear.

I have even thought of hynotherapy if it was viable. Some people say stimulants help??

I dont know? If anyone has any thoughts please let me know.

He gained up to 80 pounds on these drugs. Now his social phobia will not let him walk around the block.
I would appreciate all the help we could get.

He is married and he is not really living. Unless he is in his home.

He is sluggish and not very energetic. He also has a fungus all over his stomach and body. Especially his feet they are peeling. He is a big guy but now 80 pounds big. Very good looking and like a bunch to young to be frozen in fear.
More or less his flght and flight syndrome is on all the time. Way to much.

He does not live with me and I was not very intuitive as a mother. He was always sensitive and smart did not know how sensitive he was. Till he got older. Till he reached about 6th grade he was ok then he went into a shyness I thought but it was much worse.

How he ever got married and had a child it is a blessing. He is going to lose all of it and then I believe he will be suicidal. If he does not find a job or schooling where he actually does not have to talk to people??

Social phobia think they are being judged constantly for everything. No self esteem not assertive.
When he was young he was bright till fourth grade and he has add. No meds though back then to many side effects tics etc.

When he was born he must have been on antibiotics every month of his life for infections in his lungs.

We have been to Duke through clinical trials he lives in NC. To Raleigh to the most expensive physciatrist.

As a mother I cannot give up! It is not uncommon for people especially men that have social phobia to commit suicide.

His negative thoughts seem to make a pattern in his brain and keep going back to that same path. Something he cannot help. It is his brain doing it.

I think my husband finally understands but it is very hard for people to understand. He cannot just walk up to someone and start talking. Fight and flight takes over trembles and cannot concentrate. Then that one thing stands out and he will end up having panic attacks over something embarrassing.

Embarrassing to him is like a teacher asking him how he came to the conclusion of an answer on a math test. Saying that out loud in front of the class and him trying to explain.

Didnt happen he could not. He sat in class and talked to no one.
Not because he did not want to, he desperately wants a friend. Since most of us are chatty people it is hard to understand.

What to do??? Did an over bearing loud mother who was good but did not understand do this to him???
I think the antibiotics are partly to blame for the fungus and he possibly is hypothyroid both of which could produce anxiety. Probably a lot of allergies as well. I will pass on any other advice offered here.
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Old 09-27-2010, 10:35 AM
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A specific form of psychotherapy that focuses on decreasing negative, anxiety-provoking, or other self-defeating thoughts and behaviors (called cognitive behavioral therapy) has been found to be highly effective in treating agoraphobia. In fact, when agoraphobia occurs along with panic disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy, with or without treatment with medications, is considered to be the most effective way to both relieve symptoms and prevent their return. In fact, sometimes patients respond equally as well when treated with group cognitive behavioral therapy or a brief course of cognitive behavioral therapy as they do when treated with traditional cognitive therapy. Psychotherapy for agoraphobia has even been found to be effective for many people when they receive it over the Internet, which is optimistic news for people who live in areas that are hundreds of miles from the nearest mental-health professional. https://www.medicinenet.com/agoraphobia/page3.htm

For some products.
https://nacbt.americommerce.com/

Quote:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an empirically supported treatment that focuses on patterns of thinking that are maladaptive and the beliefs that underlie such thinking. For example, a person who is depressed may have the belief, "I�m worthless," and a person with a phobia may have the belief, "I am in danger." While the person in distress likely holds such beliefs with great conviction, with a therapist�s help, the individual is encouraged to view such beliefs as hypotheses rather than facts and to test out such beliefs by running experiments. Furthermore, those in distress are encouraged to monitor and log thoughts that pop into their minds (called "automatic thoughts") in order to enable them to determine what patterns of biases in thinking may exist and to develop more adaptive alternatives to their thoughts. People who seek CBT can expect their therapist to be active, problem-focused, and goal-directed.
Studies of CBT have demonstrated its usefulness for a wide variety of problems, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and psychotic disorders. While a full description of the treatment and presenting problems for which it is useful is beyond the scope of this brief overview, a brief summary of several treatments will be presented.
CBT has been shown to be as useful as antidepressant medication for individuals with depression and is superior in preventing relapse. Patients receiving CBT for depression are encouraged to schedule activities in order to increase the amount of pleasure they experience. In addition, depressed patients learn how to restructure negative thought patterns in order to interpret their environment in a less biased way. CBT for Bipolar Disorder is used as an adjunct to medication treatment and focuses on psychoeducation about the disorder and understanding cues and triggers for relapse. Studies indicate that patients who receive CBT in addition to treatment with medication have better outcomes than patients who do not receive CBT as an adjunctive treatment.
CBT is also a useful treatment for anxiety disorders. Patients who experience persistent panic attacks are encouraged to test out beliefs they have related to such attacks, such as specific fears related to bodily sensations, and to develop realistic responses to such beliefs. This treatment is very effective for those who experience such problems. Patients who experience obsessions and compulsions are guided to expose themselves to what they fear and beliefs surrounding their fears are identified and modified. The same is true for people with phobias, including phobias of animals or phobias of evaluation by others (termed Social Phobia). Those in treatment are exposed to what they fear and beliefs that have served to maintain such fears are targeted for modification.

Pasted from <https://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Sec...ContentID=7952>
Another excellent website for CBT. https://www.anxietynetwork.com/hcbt.html
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Old 09-27-2010, 02:06 PM
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That was really interesting to read jfh.
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Old 09-27-2010, 02:38 PM
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My grandmother had agoraphobia very badly. Those were the days when people were locked in State mental hospitals. No such thing as remedial work being done by psychologists. It was too easy to do shock therapy. Fortunately, she had a loving family.
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Old 09-27-2010, 04:51 PM
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Scullcap herb is good for anxiety in general, here's a thread of ours that addresses the issue also.

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Old 09-27-2010, 05:36 PM
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Nutrition and Supplements for Anxiety

We all have fears and worries but when they begin to dominate our life and our
behavior, and become the focal point in which everything revolves, that's
anxiety. Many factors can contribute; trauma, chemical sensitivity, caffeine,
heredity, drugs, alcohol, lifestyle choices....If you cannot change the
situation that is the focus of anxiety, try to determine a way of trying to
change your way of handling the problem. Relaxation of the mind and body and
stress reduction are key.

Anxiety is often vague and undirected, a sinking feeling that something terrible
is about to happen. Unlike concrete fears (of illness or losing a job, for
example), anxiety often stems from what used to be called borrowed trouble.
Anxious people imagine worst-case scenarios and spend lots of time dreading
things that may never happen. For persistent anxiety, seek professional
counseling. But the natural remedies can help tremendously.

Anxiety disorders are possibly the most common and frequently occurring
disorders of the mind/body. They include a group of conditions that share
extreme anxiety as the principal disturbance of mood or emotional tone. Anxiety,
which may be understood as the pathological counterpart of normal fear, is
manifest by disturbances of mood, as well as of thinking, behavior and
physiological activity. Included in this category are panic disorder (with or
without a history of agoraphobia), agoraphobia (with or without a history of
panic disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, social phobia,
obsessive-compulsive disorders, acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress
disorder .

Anxiety disorders are ubiquitous across human cultures. The longitudinal course
of these disorders is characterized by relatively early ages of onset,
chronicity, relapsing or recurrent illness and periods of disability. Panic
disorder and agoraphobia are particularly associated with suicidal tendencies.


Nutritional Considerations

Add protein and carbohydrates to your diet: Incorporate protein into your diet.
Protein helps to keep sugar levels stable. You can find protein in nuts, yogurt,
beans, fish, chicken, tofu and lentils. Consider eating low glycemic
carbohydrates such as brown rice and yams.

Seek out foods that are high in Omega-3 (fish oil/flaxseed oil): This oil has
been shown in many studies, to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce
plaque buildup in your blood. By reducing your bad cholesterol, you are helping
your body to fight off stress and relieve anxiety, tension and even prevent
heart disease! Fish/Flaxseed that are high in Omega-3 are excellent ways to help
your blood stream. They are two of the greatest hormone regulators, as well.

Folic Acid: Folic Acid (required for energy production) is considered brain
food. The brain needs it to work properly. It helps to prevent anxiety and
fatigue. Folic acid works best when combined with vitamin C, vitamin B6 and
vitamin B12. Much research has indicated that a deficiency of folic acid may
include depression, insomnia, anorexia, forgetfulness, hyperirritability,
apathy, fatigue and anxiety. You can find Folic Acid in the following foods:
Whole grain breads -Fortified cereals -Dried peas- Dried beans -Leafy
vegetables- Fruit. Most multivitamin complexes contain folic acid.

GABA: GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid) is an amino acid help reduce anxiety,
allows rational decision making, promotes restful sleep and enhances workout
recovery. It has also been shown to have similar effects as the benzodiazepine
drugs. You will also feel more relaxed and notice that you are sleeping better.
The recommended dose for GABA is 700-750 mg - 3 times daily - talk to a medical
professional about using GABA.

Inosistol: has been shown in studies to have a positive effect in the calming of
the symptoms of panic attacks and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Taking up to 4
grams daily - 3 times-a-day has shown to be beneficial.

Magnesium: The supplement magnesium has been found to aid in the management of
anxiety symptoms. Taking 200-300 mg of magnesium 2 to 3 times daily has been
shown to help.

Selenium: Selenium, an important antioxidant, is a trace mineral found in soil
and food. It protects neurotransmitters. Deficiency in selenium has shown to
have a negative impact on mood. It also helps to reduce bad cholesterol and keep
the heart healthy. You can get much of your selenium from dietary sources such
as: Alfalfa, fennel seed, ginseng, butter, garlic, liver, Brazil nuts, shellfish
and other fishes. You can find it in sunflower seeds, yarrow, wheat germ and
Brewer's yeast.

Vitamin B1: Vitamin B1 is also known as "thiamine." In many studies, B1 has
shown to have positive effects on the nervous system and mental well being.
Vitamin B1 is found in peas, soybeans, fortified breads, cereals, pasta, fish,
pork, whole grains and dried beans. Prolonged intake of large amounts of alcohol
depletes your body's supply of vitamin B1. Vitamin B3: (in the form niacinamide)
has been tested in lab animals and seems to work in animals in the way that
benzodiazepines such as Valium� have. *

Vitamin B6: Lack of Vitamin B6 has been known to cause anxiety and depression.
The formation of certain brain chemicals from amino acids requires this vitamin.
It affects the nervous system. The recommended Dietary Allowances for adults
(25+ years) is 2.0 for men and 1.6 for women. The best sources of vitamin B6 are
meats (particularly organ meats such as liver), whole grains and wheat germ.

Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is needed for energy, brain function and a healthy
nervous system. It helps to combat depression, stabilize PMS and helps to
protect against anemia and it may help fight cancer. The best food sources of
Vitamin B12 are liver, kidney, oily fish, beef, pork lamb, cheese, eggs and
milk.

Zinc: and essential mineral, has been found to have positive effects on the
nervous system as well as helping to produce a calming effect. Most
multivitamins contain zinc. Food sources for zinc are Oysters, meat, poultry,
nuts, beans and dairy products.



What You Should Avoid:

What you don't eat may be even more important than what you do eat. Avoid
alcohol, caffeine and sugar, because they tend to worsen anxiety. If you can't
avoid them, then at least cut down.


Avoid Caffeine: Caffeine is something many people in America and Europe are used
to bringing in their daily lives. Though many studies have shown that this
addictive stimulant can help produce symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and the like.
Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, many sodas and even certain
medications. Always ask your doctor about a medication before using it. Also,
ask the doctor if there is an alternative medication if your medicine contains
caffeine.

Reduce Processed and Refined Foods:

Processed food can rob your food of nutrients and vitamins that your body needs
to fight off stress and promote good health. Try to buy whole foods, unprocessed
foods and try and stay away from "instant" foods, preservatives, artificial
flavors, saturated fat and MSG.

Reduce Sugar Intake:

Too much sugar can rob our body of essential nutrients. Yet don't be so fast as
to replace the sugar with Stevia the natural sweetener from the Stevia plant.
Artificial sweetener can also cause anxiety as well as other health concerns.

Reduce Alcohol Intake:

In small amounts, alcohol can be good for your heart but too much alcohol is not
a good thing for your body and too large of an intake increases your body's need
for extra vitamins. The body has a harder time using oxygen. As a result, you
can become more sensitive to stress - which in turn can cause anxiety reactions.
It can also cause depression.

The Effects of Alcohol on Anxiety:

How does alcohol contribute to Anxiety Disorders? Research has shown that
alcohol �n high doses has numerous health hazards. As well as many other things
�t can: increase your need for extra vitamins due to disturbed eating patterns
interfere with the body's ability to use oxygen, to process food & absorb
vitamins. As a Result: High alcohol consumption makes you more sensitive to
stress.

Chronic abuse of alcohol �s often associated with depression-like symptoms,
which can reduce the ability to solve problems, which �n turn can lead to
anxiety. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to poor work performance,
relationship difficulties & financial difficulties. This can produce stressors
that worsen anxiety.


Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac
https://www.peacefulmind.com/anxiety.htm
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Old 09-27-2010, 05:38 PM
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Homeopathic Remedies for Anxiety

We all have fears and worries but when they begin to dominate our life and our
behavior, and become the focal point in which everything revolves, that's
anxiety. Many factors can contribute; trauma, chemical sensitivity, caffeine,
heredity, drugs, alcohol, lifestyle choices....If you cannot change the
situation that is the focus of anxiety, try to determine a way of trying to
change your way of handling the problem. Relaxation of the mind and body and
stress reduction are key.

Anxiety is often vague and undirected, a sinking feeling that something terrible
is about to happen. Unlike concrete fears (of illness or losing a job, for
example), anxiety often stems from what used to be called borrowed trouble.
Anxious people imagine worst-case scenarios and spend lots of time dreading
things that may never happen. For persistent anxiety, seek professional
counseling. But the natural remedies can help tremendously.

Anxiety disorders are possibly the most common and frequently occurring
disorders of the mind/body. They include a group of conditions that share
extreme anxiety as the principal disturbance of mood or emotional tone. Anxiety,
which may be understood as the pathological counterpart of normal fear, is
manifest by disturbances of mood, as well as of thinking, behavior and
physiological activity. Included in this category are panic disorder (with or
without a history of agoraphobia), agoraphobia (with or without a history of
panic disorder), generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, social phobia,
obsessive-compulsive disorders, acute stress disorder and post-traumatic stress
disorder .


Homeopathy

This medical system uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances to stimulate
a person's immune system and body's natural defenses. Homeopathic remedies are
named for the plant or animal ingredients they are made from. Homeopathy not
only offers relief from temporary disorders but, can provide long term healing
of a person due to its individual and "wholistic" approach. This often leads to
a complete recovery from the dis-ease, as well as, providing an improved
understanding of the patient's situation. This type of healing makes it easier
and possible to avoid recurrence or relapses in the future and homeopathy
stimulates the body's natural defense system by reestablishing normal immune
system and cell functioning.

Anxiety:

Gelsemium 30c and Argentum Nitricum are often considered for symptoms of are
both anxiety, sense of imbalance, apprehension and panic.

Ignatia Amara 6c ia a remedy best known for helping in times of grief.

Aconitum napellus: A panic attack that comes on suddenly with very strong fear
(even fear of death) may indicate this remedy. A state of immense anxiety may be
accompanied by strong palpitations, shortness of breath, and flushing of the
face. Sometimes a shaking experience will be the underlying cause. Strong
feelings of anxiety may also occur when a person is just beginning to come down
with a flu or cold.

Argentum nitricum: This remedy can be helpful when anxiety develops before a big
event: an exam, an important interview, a public appearance or social
engagement. Dizziness and diarrhea may also be experienced. People who need this
remedy are often enthusiastic and suggestible, with a tendency toward peculiar
thoughts and impulses. They often crave sweets and salt (which usually make
their symptoms worse).

Arsenicum album: People who are deeply anxious about their health, and extremely
concerned with order and security, often benefit from this remedy. Obsessive
about small details and very neat, they may feel a desperate need to be in
control of everything. Panic attacks often occur around midnight or the very
early hours of the morning. The person may feel exhausted yet still be
restless�fidgeting, pacing, and anxiously moving from place to place. These
people may also have digestive problems or asthma attacks accompanied by
anxiety.


Andrew Pacholyk, MS. L.Ac
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Old 09-27-2010, 07:57 PM
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Quote:
A mother on another forum I visit has asked for advice about her 29 year old son who has chronic social phobia anxiety. Any advice ?

This kid is in serious trouble.

Taking so many antibiotics for such a long period has killed off all the good bacteria in the intestines. More than likely a yeast overgrowth has resulted and now has become systemic.

The first step to recovery is to take a good probiotic, such as Dr. Ohhira's.

Step #2 would be to stop making the problem worse. Thus, eliminating sugar in all forms as well as simple carbs such as white bread, white rice, white pasta, etc.. No alcohol of any kind, no soda pop of any kind, no tap water, and no products that contain yeast or fungus, such as mushrooms, brewers yeast, bakers yeast, etc..

Step #3 would be a prescription for antifungal drugs, such as Nystatin.

For depression issues, B100 complex twice per day plus extra B3 and B6.

Once the fungus is killed, and that will take some time, the weight will start to drop. The better the diet, the faster the improvement will be. Also, as the fungi dies off, the cravings for junk food will diminish.
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Old 10-20-2010, 11:59 AM
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in my opinion, simple remedies are always the best. start off with all the simple things first,and then work your way upwards as things improve , or dont improve. so as mentioned, nutritional factors: eat super healthy, all day, every day, without fail. Plenty of fruit and veg, wholemeal and wholegrain foods etc get regular exercise - 3 times per week take a multi-vitamin do things you enjoy doing that on its own will work to change things at least. then you can consider the other tools like hypnosis, therapy sessions etc but that would be a last resort for the time being - its wise not to go for those right now
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