Posted by JonW on January 1, 2003, at 18:55:44
In reply to All with social phobia, posted by Tepiaca on December 31, 2002, at 20:05:45
> Can you tell me how is your life?
> Are you happy persons ? do you have friends ?
> are you married ? do you have a job?
> can you go to a party and have a good time ?
> Does your medicines makes you have a normal life?I think the best answer to your question is that although social phobia will probably never leave you completely, it is realistic to expect that you will be able to function well enough in life to do whatever you want and enjoy happiness just the same.
Recovery is hard work. It goes without say that medication will be necessary, at least in the short term, but being involved with CBT is a critical adjunct. Meds + therapy is the most potent combination out there, especially for SP. Seek out the best specialists you can afford, and follow their advice. It will be worth it in the end. The best doctors out there really do know what they are doing, but make sure your doctor is one of them. If you are anywhere near NYC I would highly recommend Michael R. Liebowitz (pdoc) and Carla Daichman (CBT therapist). Both are part of Klein, Liebowitz Psychiatric Associates. Dr. Liebowitz and Carla Daichman are "the" people when it comes to social phobia. Good luck, and don't be too hard on yourself. It's a long road, but it's worth it in the end. Hang in there!
Jon
poster:JonW
thread:133954
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021230/msgs/134041.html