Pinnacle Recovery

What is the Connection Between Social Anxiety and Alcoholism?

The connection between social anxiety and alcoholism is more significant than many people realize. One study found that 20% of people treated for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 15% of people treated for social anxiety disorder have both disorders. Social anxiety and alcoholism are some of the more common co-occurring disorders (a term for when a person experiences a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder at the same time). Additionally, people with an anxiety disorder are two to three times more likely to experience an alcohol or substance abuse disorder during their lifetime. 

But why are these disorders connected? This blog article will define each of these disorders, explain the connection between social anxiety and alcoholism, and include some suggestions for treatment.

What is Social Anxiety Disorder?

Social anxiety disorder occurs when a person feels anxiety or fear in situations around people in which they are worried they might be judged, rejected, or humiliated. These emotions can be so intense a person is likely to feel the situation is out of their control. Social anxiety disorder is likely to be underdiagnosed because many people do not seek treatment for their symptoms. Data estimates at least 12% of people will experience social anxiety disorder in their lifetime, with women slightly more likely to experience it than men.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder?

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines alcohol use disorder as a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. SAMHSA’s (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) 2023 survey found that more than 10% of people aged 18 and older had an alcohol use disorder.

What is the Connection Between Social Anxiety and Alcoholism?

There are a few reasons that social anxiety and alcohol use are common co-occurring disorders. One theory is the “self-medication” hypothesis, or the idea that people use alcohol to cope with the symptoms they feel during social situations. It can be a way to worry less about what other people think while feeling more relaxed and more social. This will likely create a negative cycle that leaves individuals feeling more anxious, less able to cope in the future, and with a feeling that they need alcohol to help them through social situations.

A second way that alcohol connects with social anxiety is through avoidance behavior. Sometimes, people will use alcohol to avoid uncomfortable people, places, or emotions, which is a common behavioral response to excessive fear and anxiety.

A third connection between social anxiety and alcoholism is genetics. One’s genetic background is a factor for social anxiety, and people with high social anxiety report that alcohol helps them feel more comfortable in social settings. This may also result from the environment in which they grew up, including the parental behaviors they observed.

Treatment for Social Anxiety and Alcoholism

Dual diagnosis treatment is the term for professional treatment of co-occurring disorders. Treatment happens for each disorder at the same time and is considered the most effective way to treat co-occurring disorders. For a person with social anxiety disorder and alcohol use disorder, a good approach might be cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).

CBT, sometimes called “talk therapy,” is the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders and can have a significant impact in as little as a few months. CBT first helps you focus on your thoughts, ideas, and expectations and then helps you develop skills and tools to feel more calm and relaxed.

Pinnacle Detox & Recovery Can Help

Research has taught us there is a clear connection between social anxiety and alcoholism, and these two disorders can play negatively off of each other if left untreated. However, early intervention and professional help can lead to lasting recovery. If you or a loved one are ready to take steps towards overcoming an anxiety or substance use disorder, we hope you will contact us today to discuss what treatment options could help. Our experienced and caring medical professionals can create a tailored approach to treatment that fits your unique needs. Contact us today and start living the complete life you deserve.