Social anxiety disorder treatment trial

Update on social anxiety disorder treatment trial

CCI is currently conducting an NHMRC-funded randomised controlled trial comparing two group treatment protocols for social anxiety disorder (SAD). The trial was funded from 2016-2019 with the aim of providing treatment to around 100 clients with a principal diagnosis of SAD.

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders, with an estimated 8.4% of Australian adults affected at some point in their life. People with SAD are highly fearful of evaluation, often expecting themselves to fall far short of others’ expectations. Situations such as parties, meetings, presentations, job interviews, and just being observed by others can be extremely anxiety-provoking for people with SAD. Because social situations cannot be easily avoided, SAD can be highly distressing, debilitating, and chronic without treatment.

To date, over 90 people have been assessed and 60 have been randomised to a treatment condition. After they complete the 12-week group program all clients are followed up after 1 and 6 months to assess maintenance of treatment gains. Clients who have been unsuitable for the trial have still received treatment at CCI outside of the trial.

CCI is planning to run six SAD groups in 2018, with around 10 clients per group, so referrals are very welcome. Treatment is FREE for clients. Clinicians are invited to download the referral form from CCI’s website and forward it to CCI reception. For the trial, clients are required to be at least 18 years of age, have a principal problem of social anxiety disorder, and no substance use disorder, psychosis, or bipolar disorder. For more information please contact Samantha Bank at CCI (9227 4399) or the project co-ordinator Dr Matthew Hyett (matthew.hyett@curtin.edu.au). Professor Peter McEvoy is the principal investigator.

Last Updated: 13/07/2021