Understanding Treatment Options for Social Anxiety Disorders

Understanding Treatment Options for Social Anxiety Disorders

The Albany Clinic • December 16, 2024

Social anxiety disorder can be a debilitating condition that affects how you engage with the world around you. For those who suffer from it, everyday situations like meeting new people, speaking in front of others, or even making eye contact can trigger intense fear, self-consciousness, and anxiety.



Many people face these challenges, and while traditional treatments work for some, others need more advanced solutions to find relief. This blog will help you better understand social anxiety disorder and the various treatments that can help you or a loved one feel great again.

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder is an intense, persistent fear of being judged, embarrassed, or scrutinized during social interactions. While shyness might cause mild discomfort, social anxiety disorder can trigger overwhelming anxiety that disrupts everyday life. It's a recognized mental health condition that can make social situations feel impossible to face.

Common Symptoms of Social Anxiety Disorder

People with social anxiety disorder may experience a range of symptoms, including:



  • Fear of speaking in front of others
  • Intense worry about being judged or humiliated
  • Physical reactions like sweating, shaking, blushing, or a racing heart
  • Nausea or dizziness before or during social situations
  • Difficulty making eye contact
  • Avoiding situations where they might be the center of attention


These symptoms can appear during interactions as simple as a phone call or as significant as a public presentation. Even everyday tasks like ordering food or talking to a cashier can become daunting.

Causes of Social Anxiety and Its Impact on Daily Life

Research finds that social anxiety disorder can arise from a combination of factors. Genetics plays a significant role, as the condition often runs in families. Additionally, brain structure may contribute, particularly when the amygdala (the brain region controlling fear responses) is more active than usual. Life experiences can also be a key factor, with events like bullying, humiliation, or social rejection increasing the likelihood of developing social anxiety.


When left untreated, social anxiety disorder can significantly limit personal, social, and professional growth. It can lead to missed opportunities at work or school, strained relationships, and a deep sense of isolation. Over time, avoidance of social interactions can even contribute to depression or other additional mental health challenges.

Traditional Treatments for Social Anxiety

When it comes to managing social anxiety disorder, traditional treatments often include a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. One of the most common therapeutic approaches is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT helps people identify and change negative thought patterns that fuel their anxiety while also teaching coping strategies to face social situations with more confidence.



Medications like Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are frequently prescribed to help regulate brain chemistry and reduce anxiety symptoms. These medications can be effective, but they often take several weeks to show results, and some patients experience unwanted side effects.


Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and relaxation techniques can also help alleviate symptoms. These methods aim to reduce overall stress and improve emotional well-being.


However, traditional treatments don't work for everyone. Some people find that therapy and medication provide only partial relief or take too long to produce noticeable results. For those who continue to struggle despite these efforts, social anxiety can remain a significant barrier to living a full and satisfying life. That's where more innovative treatments can make a difference.

Innovative Treatments at The Albany Clinic

At The Albany Clinic, we understand that traditional treatments for social anxiety, PTSD, and treatment-resistant depression don't work for everyone. That's why we specialize in offering advanced, evidence-based therapies to help patients find relief when other methods fall short.


Our approach combines expertise, compassion, and innovative procedures to address mental health conditions that can feel overwhelming and debilitating. Here's a closer look at the cutting-edge treatments we provide for social anxiety and related disorders.

Stellate Ganglion Block

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is a procedure that targets a group of nerves in the neck that regulate the body's "fight or flight" response. By injecting a local anesthetic around these nerves, SGB can help calm this overactive response, reducing symptoms of anxiety and hypervigilance. While SGB is widely known for its effectiveness in treating PTSD, studies demonstrate its potential to relieve severe social anxiety is promising.


Patients often experience a noticeable decrease in anxiety levels, allowing them to face social situations with greater ease and confidence. For those who feel trapped in a constant state of anxiety, SGB offers a way to reset the nervous system and regain a sense of calm.

IV Infusion Therapy (Ketamine)

Ketamine IV infusion therapy is a groundbreaking treatment for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Unlike traditional medications, which can take weeks to work, ketamine infusions often provide rapid relief, sometimes within hours. Clinical trials have shown that ketamine can effectively reduce symptoms in cases where other treatments have failed.


At The Albany Clinic, our experienced team administers ketamine infusions in a safe, controlled environment, helping patients break free from the cycle of anxiety. For those with social anxiety, this fast-acting therapy can make a significant difference, offering a renewed sense of hope and the ability to engage in life more fully.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS Therapy)

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain linked to anxiety and depression. By gently activating these regions, TMS helps to restore normal brain function and alleviate anxiety symptoms. This therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who haven't responded to medications or prefer a drug-free approach.


TMS requires no sedation, has minimal side effects, and allows patients to resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. TMS therapy can help patients move past anxiety and toward a brighter, more confident future.

SPRAVATO® (Esketamine)

SPRAVATO® (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray designed for treatment-resistant depression, a condition that often overlaps with social anxiety. Administered under medical supervision, SPRAVATO® works quickly to reduce symptoms, offering a new option for patients who haven't found success with other treatments.



One of the key benefits of SPRAVATO® is its accessibility, as many insurance plans cover it. For those battling the challenges of social anxiety, esketamine offers the possibility of fast relief.

Find Treatment for Social Anxiety in Carbondale, IL Today

At The Albany Clinic, our mission is to help you feel great again. By offering advanced treatments, we provide hope for those who feel like they've run out of options. If social anxiety has been holding you back, our innovative therapies may be the key to unlocking a life of greater confidence and freedom. You deserve relief, and we're here to help you find it.


You don't have to face social anxiety alone. Schedule a consultation today to get started.

The albany clinic logo is blue and white in a circle.

35 Albany Rd. Suite A Carbondale, IL 62903

Phone:     (888) 804-4330

Cited Source(s):
  1. Priyamvada, Richa et al. “Cognitive behavioral therapy in the treatment of social phobia.” Industrial psychiatry journal vol. 18,1 (2009): 60-3. doi:10.4103/0972-6748.57863
  2. Lynch, James H et al. “Stellate Ganglion Block Reduces Anxiety Symptoms by Half: A Case Series of 285 Patients.” Journal of personalized medicine vol. 13,6 958. 6 Jun. 2023, doi:10.3390/jpm13060958
  3. Koyuncu, Ahmet et al. “Comorbidity in social anxiety disorder: diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.” Drugs in context vol. 8 212573. 2 Apr. 2019, doi:10.7573/dic.212573
  4. Taylor, Jerome H et al. “Ketamine for Social Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial.” Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology vol. 43,2 (2018): 325-333. doi:10.1038/npp.2017.194
Book Your Free Initial Consultation

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy

A Guide to IV Ketamine

By Matt Rodriguez • July 8, 2025
Intravenous (IV) ketamine has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other hard-to-treat mental health conditions. Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, but is now being used in controlled medical settings to deliver rapid relief when traditional therapies fall short. This guide explores the history, science, benefits, and practical considerations of IV ketamine therapy and what you can expect from treatment at The Albany Clinic.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Depression

By Kimberly Mercille • May 27, 2025
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an emerging mental health treatment that targets key mechanisms linked to depression. In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind SGB and its potential benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether SGB might be the right option. What is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)? What is the Stellate Ganglion? The stellate ganglion is a cluster of sympathetic nerves located on each side of the neck near the first rib. These nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The term "stellate" means "star-shaped" because the ganglion often looks like a star under a microscope. It helps regulate the body's stress response by controlling norepinephrine, a chemical that triggers the fight-or-flight reaction. When this system becomes overactive, it can cause various physical and psychological problems, including depression. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy may help by reducing the activity of the stellate ganglion, calming the fight-or-flight response, and lessening the damaging effects of prolonged nervous system stress. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work? Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is when a local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion. These drugs inhibit transmission between nerve cells, dampening activity in the ganglion. They typically include lidocaine, bupivacaine, or mepivacaine, which are sometimes combined with a steroid medication. Patients may also receive another medication to relax them before treatment. SGB is typically performed using ultrasound guidance . The injection process lasts no more than 10 minutes, but patients will motinoted for another 30-45 minutes after treatment to ensure their safety. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work for Depression? Chronic stress is a major contributor to depression and is often linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. People with depression commonly show high levels of cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, in their blood stream. Cortisol is helpful in small doses, but when chronically elevated, it can disrupt neural circuits in the brain. Excessive cortisol can lead to: Neurotoxicity - Cortisol can be toxic to nerve cells, especially in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and emotional regulation. Overinflammation - Cortisol increases the activity of the body’s natural defense system, resulting in the system causing damage to nerve cells. Impaired synaptic plasticity - Cortisol inhibits the capacity for the brain to “re-wire” itself. This makes it harder for people to adapt to stressful situations and learn new patterns of behaviour. Disrupted sleep - High cortisol can prevent people from sleeping well. During sleep, restorative biological processes occur in the brain, and excess cortisol can prevent these from happening. SGB decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can reduce cortisol levels. This can help restore function in brain areas and pathways associated with positive mood, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. Evidence Supporting SGB for Depression To date, there’s very limited evidence supporting the use of SGB for depression. One pilot study found that SGP significantly reduced depression symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and was well-tolerated. However, there was no significant difference to the placebo group and the sample size was very small. Nonetheless, multiple lines of research show that SGB can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which shares similarities with depression. In a trial of SGB for PTSD , participants reported significantly lower scores of depression following treatment. Who May Benefit from SGB for Depression? SGB is primarily utilized for treating PTSD, so individuals with PTSD who also experience depression may find SGB beneficial. Additionally, SGB has shown potential in alleviating anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may be advantageous for those dealing with both depression and anxiety. Because SGB isn’t approved by the FDA, it is typically only used when standard treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy haven’t worked. SGB is an “off-label” treatment, much like ketamine therapy or brain stimulation therapies. Importantly, SGB may not be suitable for everyone because of medical reasons. Contraindications include: Recent myocardial infarction Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy Glaucoma Pre-existing contralateral phrenic nerve palsy Severe emphysema Cardiac conduction block Potential Risks and Side Effects of SGB Common Side Effects Most side effects of SGB are temporary and resolve as the anesthetic wears off. These may include: Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The proximity of the stellate ganglion to nerves controlling the voice box can lead to temporary hoarseness. Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis): Temporary drooping of the eyelid on the side of the injection may occur. Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Some individuals may notice redness in the eyes following the procedure. Watery Eyes and Nasal Congestion: Increased tearing and nasal stuffiness are possible but typically short-lived. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat and have difficulty swallowing after the procedure. Warmth or Tingling in the Arm or Hand: A warm or tingling sensation in the affected limb may be experienced temporarily. Although uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious complications, such as nerve damage, seizures, and allergic reactions. Given the potential risks, patients interested in SGB at the Albany Clinic will have an in-depth consultation with one of our qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing treatment. They can assess your medical history, current health status, and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure in your specific case. SGB for Depression in Illinois If you're in the Carbondale area and interested in the potential benefits of SGB for depression, the Albany Clinic is here to help. We specialize in innovative mental health treatments, including SGB, which has been shown to provide rapid relief from mental health symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks. Our experienced team offers personalized support, guiding you through every step—from determining if SGB is the right option for you to exploring alternative treatments and financial considerations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.