Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder that develops after a traumatic event. The traumatic event must involve the threat of harm to physical well-being, serious injury, or death to which the reaction is one of fear, horror, or helplessness. PTSD symptoms are grouped into three clusters: re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal. PTSD sometimes co-occurs with social anxiety disorder (SAD).
Relationship Between SAD and PTSD
In a large study of the general population, 28% of participants with a current or past diagnosis of PTSD also suffered with SAD. The rate of co-occurrence has also been shown to vary depending on which disorder is primary. In a study of patients seeking treatment, 42% of those with primary PTSD had SAD, and 7% of those with primary SAD had PTSD. Research has also shown that rates of SAD are higher in combat veterans with PTSD than in veterans without PTSD.
There are various theories about why people with PTSD may develop SAD. People with PTSD may find it hard to connect or relate to others. They may become depressed and withdraw socially. They also are more likely to have high levels of shame or guilt. All of these factors may contribute to the development of SAD in those who have PTSD.
People with both PTSD and SAD are also more likely to have greater impairment in their mental, physical, and social functioning than people who only have PTSD or SAD alone.
Treatment of Co-Occurring SAD and PTSD
Many of the treatments used for SAD are also used for PTSD, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. If you suffer with both PTSD and SAD, your doctor will plan a course of treatment to address your symptoms in the most efficient manner. If you suffer with SAD related to your PTSD, treatment of the PTSD symptoms will likely occur first.
Sources:
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Orsillo SM, Heimberg RG, Juster HR, Garrett, J. Social phobia and PTSD in Vietnam veterans. Journal of Traumatic Stress. 1996;9:235-252.
Orsillo SM, Weathers FW, Litz, BT, et al. Current and lifetime psychiatric disorders among Veternas with war zone-related posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease. 1996;184;307-313.
Zayfert C, DeViva J, Hofmann, SG. Comorbid PTSD and social phobia in a treatment seeking population: An exploratory study. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease. 2005;193:93-101.
