Promotio
n
Social phobia, also known as social anxiety, is the fear of being
at the centre of other people’s attention, and often results in an
avoidance of social situations. Common physical symptoms include
a pounding heart, anxiousness and blushing, while sufferers can
also succumb to other mental illnesses. Indeed, studies have found
that social phobia, when untreated, can cause a regression of mental
and physical functioning that results in depression in as many as a
third of cases involving young people. It may also lead to alcoholism
and substance abuse, as people turn to drink and drugs in order to
cope with their anxiety.
Social phobia very rarely occurs without a reason, the most
common of which is the fear of being criticised by others and an
unfounded feeling of shame. Generally, sufferers can be divided
into two categories: the conflicted type and the withdrawal type.
The first of these is thought to have developed during childhood
as a result of strict discipline, parental undervaluation or high
expectations at home or at school. They may eagerly want to join the
social company of others, but find it embarrassing due to their lack
of self-esteem. The withdrawal type is the result of an isolated home
environment and lack of social contacts. They do not necessarily
blush, but will avoid company and eye contact.
As many as 8-10% of the population suffers from the condition,
which can have catastrophic effects on the development of
friendships, the ability to form a relationship and progression
in work. Thankfully, the symptoms of social phobia can now be
treated with an endoscopic sympathetic block – a delicate and
drug-free procedure that can be performed as day surgery under
light anaesthesia. Here, the sympathetic chain – part of the body’s
nervous system – is gently compressed with tiny clips and only one
treatment is required. Plus, the process is reversible if the patient
should feel any discomfort following the operation.
The insertion of a sympathetic block will quickly allow the
patient to return to a normal life, safe in the knowledge that the
symptoms are under control. Academic studies have demonstrated
the procedure’s effectiveness in combating blushing and a racing
heart, as well as the psychological feeling of anxiety. The block can
also help address panic attacks, stuttering or trembling, problems
with sweating and common fears such as flying, heights or the dark.
Sympatix, under the guidance of Dr Timo Telaranta, is a world-
leading specialist clinic in sympathetic block treatment, and
operates across multiple locations in both Finland and Italy. Visit
the website for further information, and fill in the questionnaire to
receive prompt feedback on how the treatment could benefit you.
sympatix.fi, telaranta@gmail.com, +358 50 67222
Questionnaire: bit.ly/XaAYuz
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