Psychology Presentation

Social Anxiety Disorder

Carondalette Wilson Department of Psychology, Southeastern University PSYC 4043: diagnosis,assessment,& case management Professor Myers november 12, 2024

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summary

I have chosen to cover Social Anxiety Disorder. Adele has been open about her intense stage fright and anxiety. I believe Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is a fitting choice. This disorder involves an intense fear of being judged or negatively evaluated in social or performance situations. Thus making it a good fit for the anxiety she has described when performing.

Index

Adele’s Experience with Social Anxiety Disorder

Introduction to Social Anxiety Disorder

Possible Causes of Adele’s Anxiety

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria

Treatments Adele Has Used

Prevalence and Differential Diagnoses

Outcome and Reflections

Treatment Options

Conclusion and Reflection

Introduction to Adele

References

Why Choose Adele?

“Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it.”-Kahlil Gibran

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a long-term mental health condition that causes individuals to feel extreme fear or discomfort in social settings. Those affected by SAD often worry about being judged or closely observed by others, which can lead them to either avoid social interactions altogether or face them with overwhelming anxiety. This disorder can significantly impair a person’s ability to function effectively in social, work-related, or other crucial aspects of daily life.

Introduction to Social Anxiety Disorder

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria

Impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning

Persistent fear or anxiety about one or more social situations

Social situations almost always provoke fear

Fear of showing anxiety symptoms that will be negatively evaluated

Symptoms last for at least 6 months

Prevalence and Differential Diagnoses

Affects around 7% of the U.S. population annually.More common in females than males. Differential Diagnoses: Distinguish from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Major Depressive Disorder.

7% of the US population

Treatment Options

2. Exposure Therapy

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Anxiety can be treated with a few options or a combination of them.

3. Medications: SSRIs (e.g., sertraline), benzodiazepines

4. Combination of therapy and medication is often effective.

Adele

Adele Laurie Blue Adkins is a British singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and emotional ballads. She is also a Grammy Award-winning artist with global recognition.

Why adele?

She is known for her raw, emotional performances, yet she has openly discussed her struggles with anxiety and stage fright. Her case highlights how even highly successful individuals can experience significant mental health challenges.

Adele’s Experience with Social Anxiety Disorder

Possible Causes of Adele’s Anxiety

• High expectations and pressure from the music industry

• Fear of negative evaluation from millions of fans and critics

• Personal experiences and possible family history of anxiety

Known approaches:Adele has taken breaks from performing to manage her anxiety. She has reportedly used breathing exercises and relaxation techniques. Potential additional treatments: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) could help reframe her fear of negative evaluation. Medication (e.g., SSRIs) might be beneficial if symptoms are severe.

Treatments Adele Has Used

Outcome & Reflections

What was learnedEven celebrities are not immune to mental health issues, and taking breaks or seeking treatment can be crucial for well-being.

Outcome: Despite her anxiety, Adele has continued to perform successfully, though she limits her live performances.

Conclusion & Reflection

Summary of the Presentation:

The Impact of Anxiety on High-Performing Individuals:

Importance of Addressing and Treating Anxiety:

Social Anxiety Disorder is a common mental health condition characterized by intense fear of social or performance situations. The disorder affects millions globally and can significantly impair daily life. Adele, despite being a highly accomplished artist, has struggled with Social Anxiety Disorder, particularly when performing live. Her experience highlights the reality of anxiety, even for those who seem confident and successful on the surface.

It’s crucial to seek help for Social Anxiety Disorder, as untreated anxiety can limit personal and professional growth. With appropriate treatment (like CBT, exposure therapy, and medication), individuals can manage symptoms effectively and continue pursuing their goals.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their success or fame. It is no respecter of persons. Adele’s case is a powerful example of how anxiety can persist even when someone reaches the peak of their career.

Conclusion & Reflection cont'd

Adele’s Resilience and Personal Growth:

What I Learned from Researching Adele’s Experience:

Final Takeaway:

II want to reinforce that mental health is a vital part of our overall well being, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. I believe that even the strongest voices, like Adele’s, sometimes need to pause and find their own rhythm in managing mental health. It should be the same said for me.

It’s easy to assume that successful celebrities have everything figured out, but they face real mental health challenges like everyone else. Researching this topic emphasized the importance to address the negative stigmas behind mental health issues, as even public figures struggle and seek help. It also taught me the value of self-compassion and the importance of taking proactive steps to manage anxiety.

Adele’s resilience and her choice to take breaks when needed, shows self awareness and how she prioritizes her mental health. Despite her anxiety, she continues to release music and perform. This shows that treatment and coping strategies can help people live fulfilling lives..

References

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.).Sommers-Flanagan, J., & Sommers-Flanagan, R. (2016). Clinical assessment workbook: Balancing strengths and differential diagnosis (2nd ed.).

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