Product Description
Self-Help Book of Merit
Awarded by the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

There's nothing wrong with being shy. But if social anxiety keeps you from forming relationships with others, advancing in your education or your career, or carrying on with everyday activities, you may need to confront your fears to live an enjoyable, satisfying life.

This new edition of The Shyness and Social Anxiety Workbook offers a comprehensive program to help you do just that. As you complete the activities in this workbook, you'll learn to:

• Find your strengths and weaknesses with a self-evaluation
• Explore and examine your fears
• Create a personalized plan for change
• Put your plan into action through gentle and gradual exposure to social situations

  Information about therapy, medications, and other resources is also included. After completing this program, you'll be well-equipped to make connections with the people around you. Soon, you'll be on your way to enjoying all the benefits of being actively involved in the social world.

  ... Read more

Product Description
This revised workbook is designed for patients' use as they work, either with a qualified mental health professional or on their own, to manage social anxiety. Based on the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, the treatment program described is evidence-based and proven effective. Complete with user-friendly forms and worksheets, as well as relatable case examples and chapter review questions, this workbook contains all the tools necessary to help patients manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life. ... Read more

Product Description
Announcing...one of the First Four Titles in the Overcoming Series. The immensely popular international market leader of self-help titles.

Step-by-step guides to self-improvement that introduce the methods of the highly regarded cognitive behavioral therapy technique to help readers conquer a broad range of disabling conditions--from worry to body image problems to obsessive compulsive disorder and more.

The accessible, straightforward, and practical books in the Overcoming series treat disorders by changing unhelpful patterns of behavior and thought. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) was developed by psychiatrist Aaron T. Beck and is now internationally favored as a practical means of overcoming longstanding and disabling conditions, both psychological and physical. CBT insists that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors. Even when our situation does not change, if we change the self-defeating ways we think, we can make ourselves feel better. This positive, pragmatic approach is popular with therapists and patients alike.

Books in the Overcoming Series:
* highlight the history and background of the disorder, who is likely to be affected, and what the main symptoms are
* provide a structure ideal for personal use or in a program using guided self-help techniques
*include diagnostic questionnaires, case studies, and workbook-style interactive exercises
*explore step-by-step techniques such as diary- and record-keeping, problem-solving, and managing symptoms
*include overviews of all treatment options
*offer authoritative, commonsense solutions to pervasive, difficult emotional problems
* are highly recommended by experts around the world
*and offer readers an affordable and easy-to-follow treatment plan ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Your not the only one out there with this condition
This book is a great tool in helping to understand what is social anxiety and it symptoms and traights.It offers tools to help you with your roots of anxiety comes from and how to try and live a better life with coping skills.It lets you know that it is a common disorder when it makes you feel like you are going crazy or nobody understands when they do.

Sharp focus on Social Anxiety
If you are sure that your only problem is social anxiety, than it is great book with a sharp focus on this topic. If you would like to receive a more general guide about your psychological problems (maybe you have not read anything in this genre yet) then I would recommend The Feeling Good Handbook. After that you will see if you need to study more and read this book.

Really Helpful Book
I haven't read other books on social anxiety, but I have read a number of books on anxiety disorders.This book is so helpful to me - it's practical and realistic.The author totally gets social anxiety - the causes, beliefs, behaviors, and effects - and suggests cognitive behavioral techniques to address and ultimately minimize the anxiety.It's a comforting relief to have someone understand, explain, and help resolve something that can sometimes be so difficult to live with. ... Read more

Product Description
A former anxiety sufferer shows you how to overcome your anxiety problems

Do you have a tremendous fear of public speaking, flying, or other social situations? Do you live in fear of having another panic attack? Do you depend on antidepressants, alcohol, or other medications to calm you down or help you sleep? If so, you're not alone. Tens of millions of Americans are affected by anxiety disorders and many more worldwide. I personally struggled for five years with extreme social anxiety and panic attacks, constantly battling my own scary and seemingly uncontrollable thoughts.

I finally found the path to freedom from excessive worry, medication, and fear. I have overcome these problems and now live my life with a greater sense of inner peace and calmness. I'm not a medical doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist of any sort. I am simply a normal guy whose life was once overrun with constant worry, fear, and depression. With great determination, research, and trial and error, I have returned to a healthy state of wholeness and optimism.

My book details many of the problems I encountered daily, struggles that anyone suffering from anxiety can certainly relate to. I expand in detail upon my journey towards personal freedom, the valuable lessons I learned along the way, and how to apply them to your own life. I discuss why I had several severe relapses with my progress, and how you can avoid the same pitfalls.

Book highlights include:

Education - Explanations of what anxiety is, and how it affects your body and mind.
Strategy - How to formulate a plan to overcome your own fears and self-created limitations.
Techniques - Discussions of the various physical and mental techniques I found most helpful in my recovery and still practice today, including meditation.
Inspiration - I show you how to gain a sense of urgency and inspiration to change your life.
Life Changes - Adjustments to your lifestyle to help encourage a peaceful mind and body.

Are you ready to get your life back? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Real Solutions to a Real Problem
The author does an excellent job illustrating a problem that everyone has to some degree, but never discusses.Whether you are struggling through the hardest of times that the author describes so vividly or just need help controlling daily things that stress you out, the author provides a steady dose of hope (with lots of humor) that you will find a way to manage the anxiety and live a happy, fulfilling life.The very personal experiences the author shares provide a solid base for all of the tips and advice on how to control the anxiety because you know he has experienced it and overcome it.The advice in this book would benefit anyone.

Honesty about Anxiety and Hope!
Brutal honesty revealed in specific examples no one else would dare to share, validating we are not alone dealing with anxiety. The various modalities given are a breath of fresh air and are simple to try- experience one or try them all to see what works best for you. It's nice to be given all these choices. This book gives so much hope that anxiety can be beat without medication. It is a must read for all anxiety sufferers, no matter what level you suffer. The suffering can end!

Book has some helpful tips/advice, but I disagree with medication viewpoint
I thought this book had some great tips and advice for overcoming anxiety and fears.It also helped me see life in a more positive way.The problem I had was the negative view of medication.I just don't want people to read the book and think medication is not an alternative.One of the problems the author had was he mixed alcohol and SSRI antidepressants/anxiety medication.You cannot mix these 2 drugs!The SSRI's medication will not be effective!It also sounds like the author had an alcohol problem which can cause anxiety too.His first panic attack came after he drank heavily the night before and was badly hungover and dehydrated the next day(pages 3-4).
I personally completely stopped drinking alcohol and also take anxiety medication that has done wonders for my life.My Doctor says he thinks my biggest change is due to not drinking alcohol.Anyhow, just wanted to mention that.I do carry around the list of 10 things from this book (page 152) in my wallet along with another list from a book called "The Easy Way to Stop Drinking".Find your right combination.But you have to cut out the alcohol if you take medication or want to improve your life.I also have cut back on my medication with no side effects or issue.I plan to cut out completely soon.Thanks and Good Luck to all.

This Book Will Put You in Touch with Your Inner Warrior Again.
It's hard to write all the ways this book has comforted me in one small review. I started experiencing panic attacks during a very stressful and unhealthy time in my life -- like so many others. Before panic, I felt like I could go anywhere and do anything. I couldn't name one thing I was afraid of if I tried. But anxiety made me utterly lost, and for many days, I was a shaky, nervous, and total wreck. This book's cover alone told me two things that I needed to be told so badly throughout my darkest times: I'm not crazy, and there is hope. (Look at all these reviews! Obviously, you are not alone.) I found hope after all; this book helped lead me to it. The author's revealing encounters with anxiety were told with such honesty and humility that I found myself sometimes laughing and other times crying while reading. Pavalanis is brutally honest in detail about his experiences and speaks straight from his heart. He isn't a doctor throwing around medical terms in a patronizing tone because he has seen a patient or two with anxiety issues. He's been there. He walked through the darkness, and he'll walk you through it, too. I highly, highly, highly recommend this read for anyone suffering from anxiety. And I thank the author right from my heart for being so awesome to share his story with all of us!

So candid!
The author was completely forthcoming with his problems with anxiety. I, on the other hand, have always been a bit embarrassed to tell people about mine.This book has served as an inspiration.The second half of the book speaks a lot about different practical techniques the author has used to combat his problems, and it sounds like he is pretty much over it.So if you purchase this book, you'll read a first-hand account of someone who had anxiety problems to a very severe degree, and what he did to cure himself.If nothing else, you'll see that you are not alone. ... Read more

Product Description
The second edition of this therapist guide is designed to give mental health professionals the necessary tools to assess and treat social anxiety disorder. Although the components of the program remain unchanged, the authors have updated the guide to include clearer instructions for facilitating treatment, specifically for conducting in-session exposures and cognitive restructuring exercises. Also provided is helpful information for structuring treatment including suggested number of sessions for each chapter, session outlines,lists of materials needed, and homework assignments.
Clinicians will find this guide comprehensive and easy to use. It has everything you need to implement a clinically proven and scientifically sound treatment for social anxiety. ... Read more

Product Description

Replace Rejection and Fear with Self-Respect

Almost everyone feels shy or slightly stressed in certain kinds of situations -- with new people, on a job interview, or on a first date. Jonathan Berent has helped thousands who suffer from shyness become calm, confident, and socially adept. He shows how even extremely shy people can overcome the low self-esteem and frustration that settle in after years of social disappointments and rejection, and gradually move toward mastery of the situations they find most difficult.

* Learn about treatment for adults, teenagers, and children (with special advice for parents)
* Practice specific goal-setting exercises and new treatment techniques
* Overcome symptoms that block careers, relationships, and personal fulfillment
* Conquer the entire range of problems -- from mild shyness to crippling social phobias
* Achieve lasting self-esteem

Through interactive exercises and supportive, encouraging words, Beyond Shyness gives shy people a new chance in the social world, a chance at ease in situations that have long been agonizing. Berent shows how to instill a healing confidence and replace rejection with real self-respect. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

Agree - very harmful!
These types of books are perfect for someone who is already obsessive about their social anxiety disorder and convinced that there is something wrong with themselves, and that they need change immediately in order to become acceptable to society.Unfortunately - this is a harmful combination!

I would not recommend this book to anyone - it only made me more self conscious and depressed while dealing with social anxiety.Now that I have accepted myself I have finally achieved relief.

Instead - i would recommend a person read books such as "The Power of Now" by Eckart Tolle..This is the best way for a person to find internal happiness, instead of that through others..

A Great Success Story
This book helped me tremendously.A large part was how Berent gets you to look at yourself and understand that this is a behavior that can be changed through self-analysis and practice.I read the book about 3 years ago.Before that, I, without really knowing it, avoided social situations or talking in front of people at work.This was hindering my career.Once I realized this, using the book, I planned a change in behavior and started to overcome some of my fears.This lead to a promotion about 2 years ago, and then, near the end of last year, I was able to seize a once in a lifetime opportunity to start my own business.So far, so good!Thanks Jon!

This book saved me
With this book and the Beyond Shyness self-help audio program, I pulled myself up out of a world of shame and guilt and frustration into a world of logic, compassion and clarity at a level I've never knew existed. I have a totally new understanding of my fellow man and have virtually rid myself of the critical, judgmental mindset that used to isolate me from anyone knew.

this is good !!
i have read this book some months ago and its impression is still on me.when i have to make a decisuion i also think what this book will advice me.i had been a SP/SAD many years and read a lot of books and this is ,i think ,one of the 3 best . its style isnt too clinicaly . it also help me to understand things that related to other problem of mine which i didnt knew that i suffer from (dependent personality). when you read it doesnt make you to fill that you have a defect in your brain but that you have some wrong behavior that you have to change(for your own good). it also have good advices for parents of shy people-something that i didnt see in other books.

very recommende.buy it yesterday !

Highly Recommended
I high recommend this book. Author notes the underlying causes of the problem. Then list all of the fears one can face(very authoritive exprience). And finally steps you through to overcome the problem. Verypracticable. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
This is a client workbook for those in treatment or considering treatment for social anxiety. This program has met the American Psychological Association's Division 12 Task Force criteria for empirically-supported treatments. Clients will learn how social anxiety interferes with the achievement of life goals. The workbook includes information about a variety of interventions, such as exposure, cognitive re-framing, and medication. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent workbook
Written by pre-eminent researcher-clinicians in social anxiety, this workbook takes the reader step-by-step through their straightforward cognitive-behavioral treatment program. It is replete with examples, exercises, and homework assignments. For the therapist and client alike, this is a valuable adjunct to therapy. ... Read more

Product Description
We've all felt occasional pangs of shyness and self-consciousness, but for the 15 million Americans with social anxiety disorder, the fear of being scrutinized and criticized can reach disabling proportions. Such was the case for Emily Ford, who shares her firsthand experiences in these pages. Emily's true story of fear, struggle, and ultimate triumph is sure to resonate with other socially anxious teenagers and young adults.
Emily's frank, often witty, sometimes poignant account of how she negotiated all the obstacles of social anxiety--and eventually overcame them with the help of therapy and hard work--makes for compelling reading. Yet this book is more than just a memoir. Emily's story is coupled with the latest medical and scientific information about the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and self-management of social anxiety disorder (or SAD). Readers will find a wealth of solid advice and genuine inspiration here. In engaging, accessible language--and with the help of psychiatrist Michael Liebowitz--she discusses what is known and not known about social anxiety disorder in adolescents. She outlines the various psychotherapies available for those with SAD and explains how to seek professional help, how to talk to family and friends about the illness, and how to handle difficult social situations. The result is both an absorbing story and a useful guide that will help to ease the isolation caused by SAD, encouraging young people to believe that, with commitment and hard work, they can overcome this illness.
Part of the Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series of books written specifically for teens and young adults, What You Must Think of Me will also be a valuable resource for friends and family of those with SAD. It offers much-needed hope to young people, helping them to overcome this illness and lead healthy, productive lives. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Empathy and Advice
A few years ago I ended up dropping out of high school because I became so incredibly overwhelmed after a couple of years of medication and doctors appointments for what was thought to be just depression. Looking back, I remember how I couldn't eat breakfast because my anxiety unsettled my stomach too much. How I use to pretend I was sick rather often so I didn't have to face my teachers after not completing my homework and have my peers think I was stupid. I can still wonder around store too afraid to ask for help or dread making a phone call for hours before I actually do it. I didn't realize until much later my depression was caused by my anxiety.

In this book, I think many young adults are given the few things they absolutely need--understanding and answers. The author bravely shares her difficult journey offering empathy and comfort which can be difficult to find in school and even at home. The small personal exercises and guidance towards the road to better living are very helpful.

I would recommend this book to anyone who felt like they needed a better understanding of social anxiety (whether they are someone suffering from it or someone seeking to learn more,) its been helpful for me.

Adjunct to therapy
As a psychotherapist I treat young clients with social anxiety. I always recommend they get this book for personal use and as a 'tool' for use in their therapy. Each client reports they have found it very helpful indeed and I recently had a parent tell me how much it helped her better understand what her child is going through. I recommend this book as a valuable tool for both professional counselors and for anyone wanting to overcome social anxiety.

A rare glimpse into the tortured world of a young person struggling with social anxiety disorder
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"As a child, Emily was incomparable, unusual, even precocious.At age four she was writing little poems and stories, enjoying music, art, and a myriad of creative pastimes.The breadth of her imagination along with her joie de vivre was a charming combination.Then in her teens, Emily became increasingly self-conscious.Immediate post-college days marked the beginning of her deep depression...During this time she frequently slept by day and was up all night...Emily withdrew socially; personal reactions became rare.Anxiety plagued her to the point of refusing to talk on the phone...Her eating habits became bizarre..."

The above is part of a letter written by the mother of the main author of this fascinating book, Emily Ford (with professor of clinical psychology, Dr. Michael Liebowitz and freelance health & psychology writer Linda Andrews).

This book in a nutshell has Ford sharing her personal struggle with the serious yet treatable disorder called social anxiety disorder (SAD), also called social phobia.She takes the reader along on her incredible and courageous journey of successfully coping with this disorder, while providing useful information, help, and hope to others also suffering from it (about 15 million Americans suffer from SAD), as well as to family members and friends who want to help.It is also an excellent book for those like me (one of my degrees is a psychology degree) who want to understand this disorder from the perspective of a person who has been challenged by it.

What is social anxiety disorder (SAD)?It is an anxiety disorder.Anxiety is a vague, unpleasant, emotional state with qualities of apprehension, dread, distress, and uneasiness.An anxiety disorder is a cover term for a variety of maladaptive syndromes which have severe anxiety as the dominant disturbance.SAD is "an anxiety disorder characterized by marked fear in social situations that involve being around unfamiliar people or the possibility of scrutiny by others."(Note that SAD is "substantially different" from shyness.)

Ford's chronicling of coping with SAD is in a word: superb.She tells her story with insight and warmth.

A major highlight of this book is that key points from the main narrative are isolated (in handwritten script), thus allowing the reader to have important information at his/her fingertips.To give the reader a "feel" for the book, I will give one example of these key points from each section (preface and chapters) of the book:

Preface: "The bravest thing I've ever done was to reach out and actively seek the assistance I desperately wanted and knew I needed."
(1) "I believed everyone around me was exchanging subtle signs and singles, conveying to one another that for any of a number of reasons, I was out of place."
(2) "Unless I knew I was going to be very good at something, I didn't do it at all."
(3) "Allowed to grow freely, untested by real-world experiences, my fears quickly mushroomed out of control."
(4) "Some new outfits and a change of scenery didn't magically transform me into the confident, outgoing person I wanted to be."
(5) "Medication may work faster than [therapy], but therapy may have more durable effects after treatment is stopped."
(6) "It takes great courage to force yourself to face your fears."
(7) "The confidence I gained by facing smaller challenges strengthened my belief that I could succeed."
(8) "Social anxiety disorder is just one of the many characteristics that make me the unique person I am."

After the main narrative is completed, there ishelpful material at the end of the book.First, there is a section called "Frequently Asked Questions."It is composed of 14 important questions regarding social anxiety disorder with complete answers given.Second, there is a glossary of terms that are defined for the reader.The definition of social anxiety disorder given above was taken from this glossary.Finally, there is a resource list provided not only for social anxiety disorder but for other disorders as well.

Finally, I only had one problem with this book.Although the author does a good job on informing the reader of the variety of medications (that is, prescribed drugs) available to aid therapy, I feel she does not convey the many problems associated with them.For example, there is a chart given that lists the prescribed drugs for social anxiety disorder.No where on this chart are the dangerous side effects given.

The fact is prescribed drugs are not candies.They have to be treated with caution.Thus, if prescribed drugs must be given, they ideally should be carefully monitored by the therapist prescribing them and given only for the short term (3 to 6 months).

In conclusion, this is a rare book written by a person trying to cope with social anxiety disorder.I leave you with the conclusion of the mother's letter that I began above:

"Remarkably, Emily has abandoned her dark despair and re-emerged into the radiance of self-delight and that of the world around her...Through...therapy and medication Emily has become a `new' person, ironically by becoming her `old' self.Once again, Emily has embraced the validity of her emotions, her uniqueness, and her interest in the lives of others."

(first published 2007;forward;preface;8 chapters;main narrative 120 pages;frequently asked questions;glossary; resources;bibliography;index)

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... Read more

Product Description
An essential guide for the 5.3 million American sufferers of social anxiety from a leading
psychiatrist and researcher

An estimated 5.3 million Americans experience social anxiety disorder, making it the third most common psychiatric illness in the United States. Unlike people with simple shyness, people with social anxiety disorder become sick with fear in social situations, experiencing physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, a shaky voice, or a pounding heart. They realize their fears are irrational, but they are virtually incapable of maintaining healthy relationships and performing everyday tasks in public settings without medical treatment.

In Coping with Social Anxiety, Eric Hollander, director of the Compulsive, Impulsive, and Anxiety Disorders Program at the Mt. Sinai Medical Center explains
- the nature of social anxiety disorder and how it differs from
simple shyness and phobia
- the latest research on the physiological effects of social anxiety
disorder and its links with depression
- the full range of treatment options-and how to select the best
therapeutic course with the help of a medical professional

Illustrated by accounts of successful treatment from Hollander's clinical practice, this book will help readers make informed judgments about the proper treatment to seek for themselves or someone close to them.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Okay Book
This book didn't do much for me.It can be informative, but it's too academic, dry and boring.I like Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness: A Self-Help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (2008) by Gillian Butler better.Her book is far more helpful. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent for Learning How to Face Your Fears
I have social phobia that developed from having a voice disorder. It had held me back professionally until I decided to change careers and go to graduate school. The idea of giving presentations in school was terrifying, but I was tired of the fear holding me back. I learned biofeedback and read this book before starting graduate school. I am now in my last semester and credit this book with getting me there.

This book will help you understand social phobia and how your mind and body respond to the fear. This understanding combined with the activities will help you face social challenges that you set for yourself. This is a very comprehensive book that helps you set goals, identify how your body responds to fear, identify your unrealistic beliefs, learn how to handle exposure to your fears, communication and social skills, stress reduction, how to handle set backs, and medications.

These skills will also transfer to handling other fears as well. Yesterday, despite my fear of heights, I was able to participate in a high ropes course activity where I climbed a pole and walked across a log that was high in the air. I was able to identify unrealistic thoughts that were keeping me from participating and knew that I could continue after the initial fear. It was fantastic! I wish the same for everyone who has experienced fear that limits their lives. Bottom line - get the book and start living your life again!

Wonderful resource for social anxiety sufferers
I was given this book to read years ago while I was a patient at an anxiety treatment center in Chicago.As I was suffering from daily panic attacks and social anxiety, I immediately identified with the very specific and well documented subject matter in this book.

What I like most about this book is that it is interactive and provides questionnaires for the reader to fill out to help identify what your anxiety problems are and to plan the most effective treatment course.Additionally, there are many coping skills that are easy to apply, as well as a thorough breakdown of cognitive-behavioral techniques.

A tremendous part of my recovery from extreme social anxiety were many of the techniques and education that I gained from reading this book.As an anxiety sufferer, this book is a valuable resource that is helpful to reference over and over as you begin your recovery.I highly recommend it!

Steve Pavilanis, Author
A Life Less Anxious: Freedom from panic attacks and social anxiety without drugs or therapy (Volume 1)

Informative
This book is a suggested by the doctor I work with. Awesome information for people who suffer with, and are seeking to oversome, social anxiety.

Interesting
Book has useful information.A lot relates to me.Easy to understand, but not sure it will solve my problem.It's very difficult to put into practice as it suggests.

Reader
I have read several other books that offered hope but no real help.
This book gave me my life back. It worked for me. I judged this book by its cover and it sat on my shelf for a month while I read other books that did nothing.
I am so glad I bought, and finally read this book. ... Read more

Product Description
From a distinguished mental health expert—a comprehensive, clearly organized handbook to living successfully with social anxiety and shyness
Anyone who has ever experienced anxiety in social situations knows how awkward, debilitating, and even painful it can be. Finding good professional advice on how to manage it is not always easy. In Living Fully with Shyness and Social Anxiety, therapist and mental health expert Erika B. Hilliard offers a comprehensive guide to living successfully and confidently with such conditions. In clear, reassuring language, she covers in depth all of the relevant subjects, including:

• Calming the body• Blushing• Eye contact• Body language• Cultivating positive thoughts• Medications• The power of imagination• Effective goal-setting• Shy bladder syndrome• Acing job interviews and presentations• Connecting with others

This is the most thorough resource for everyone looking for an honest, supremely helpful guide to gaining social confidence. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Great
Great book, very well written and nurturing. Different from other social anxiety books I've read in that it's not simply a 'work book' that gives you a bunch of exercises to try and 'fix' you, rather she helps instill a positive attitude about shyness/social anxiety and unique ways to approach and think about this condition. Out of three books I've read on the topic, this one has had the strongest impact on helping me achieve a higher sense of confidence and acceptance. Although it sounds paradoxical, by accepting your shyness/social anxiety as a part of you instead of a negative aspect of yourself to be controlled, you will develop a deeper sense of calm and stability in your life, and so therefore will be less intimidated and anxious in social situations. I highly recommend this book!

This book has truly saved me!
This book has absolutely saved my life.Now when I get that "what do they think of me" feeling, I'm able to just 'push it out.'I feel free, I feel lighter.I've been in therapy for years and it's always been about my "connection" to people, or lack there of.I was too busy in my own head to connect with others!It really helps to know that it was/is social anxiety.It's OK not be perfect.It's OK not to know everything.If I miss something, it's OK.I'm still a wonderful human being!

Anyone who wonders what others are thinking about them or overanalyzes social situations could benefit from this book.Just imagine how much better you'll feel without all that negative chatter in your head!

A Comprehensive Guide? Not exactly
If I am reading a book about how to overcome shyness and the physical symptoms I would have expected it to teach you such exercises. The majority of this book tells you why you are shy and that it is not a bad thing you should pretty much just accept it and get over it. If you want to know why you are shy and what may or may not have happened to you in the past to make you more susecptable then read this book. If you want to know steps or practices to avoid while raising your child to prevent them from becoming shy then read this book.

A lesser re-hash of more helpful books
I was hoping this book would explore shyness in more depth and reveal deeper insights about its roots in the psyche.It was rated well, so I bought it, and I've found it hasn't really helped my understanding much.I feel like I could have writtten a lot of it from the knowledge I already have.I would recommend Feeling Good(if you haven't read it) by David Burns over this because I think it is a more direct and practical guide that more broadly and thoroughly addresses anxiety and depression.

This book may be okay for someone who is addressing his/her shyness for the first time, but besides a lot of beating around the bush about how it's okay to be shy, the true insight was lacking.The practical steps to take in learning to cope with shyness were less potent versions of exercises better described in other books.I would not call it "a comprehensive guide to gaining social confidence" and think that is a promise it doesn't keep despite it's good intention.

HELP WITH SHYNESS
Great book - really helped my client who had big time problems with shyness - I am a psychotherapist and this is the best I've found. ... Read more

Product Description
Over 20 million people in the U.S. alone feel intensely anxious in social situations - from work to their personal lives. The results of their agonizing pangs of self-consciousness are interrupted education, reduced productivity, financial dependence, and lack of satisfying social and intimate relationships.

This new and improved Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe 2nd Ed. is designed to meet the fundamental needs of social phobics. Written with humor by a psychologist and ex-social phobic, this book is based upon years of interviews with sufferers and clinical researchers. It provides systematic and clinically-proven methods for successfully coping with both social anxiety and related life problems.

It is the insider s scoop and life-strategy approach to social phobics, the shy, self-conscious, and introverted, for alleviating their pain, achieving their many goals, and effectively working toward their potential in all aspects of their lives.

This new and improved edition has even more step-by-step exercises, assignments, tips, tools, summaries, and online and offline resources, making it comprehensive and especially useful and user-friendly. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (176)

fake 5 star reviews
book was ok. more of a general survey. and somewhat helpful.dont know where all these 5 stars came from. somethingfishy

174 Reviews Were For 1st Edition of DPPU, Not This 2nd Edition.
This is the New & Improved Second Edition of "Diagonally-Parked in a Parallel Universe: Working Through Social Anxiety" (published 2010 - 1st. Ed. was published in 2000 with a different cover). I'm writing to let potential buyers of this the 2nd Ed. know that the 174 Reviews which are listed here are from the 1st Ed. of the book. New reviews would have a 2010 starting date on them.

The reason I mention this is that the rewriting for the 2nd Ed. has taken any criticism of the 1st. Ed. to heart and revised the book to be very readible, user-friendly, and on-point. There are many more targeted exercises, assignments, important information, and tips. Anything that might not have been on-target-helpful to the reader's understanding or their following the step-by-step approach to social anxiety recovery has been removed. Up-to-the-minute, relevant information has been added with respect to medications, therapy, resources, and life strategies.

This book has been reviewed and acclaimed by clinical researchers in the field of social anxiety/social phobia. I feel confident you will find it even more helpful than the 1st Ed. If you would like to comment to me personally on the 2nd Ed.'s usefulness to you, I would welcome hearing from you. Much success on your being "parallel parked in a parallel universe" soon!

- Dr. Signe, author and publisher

PLEASE NOTE: The "Change" example used by Nick in his August 29, 2009, review of the 1st Ed. of the book may appear to represent what was actually written in the book. It does not. No Mayans, symbols on bamboo, or a synopsis of the 14 challenging theories etc.

Extremely Frustrating Read: Very Tangential
I am almost half-way through this book, and so far whatever help it offers is either never going to reveal itself, or I've lost my patience to discover it, because the author's writing style is amazingly tangential.This is more of a psych. textbook than a self-help book.He has managed to summarize every theory of social psychology and define every word he has typed thus far, but I still don't know how to be less socially anxious.

Imagine every sentence you read went something like this:

To change, we need to challenge our irrational beliefs.

Change

There are various theories on how one changes.Miller and Prochastka cite 4 critical stages of change:

1. Precontemplation
2. Contemplation
3. Action
4. Maintanence

Need

When we need something, it is more than just wanting something to happen.The ancient Mayas expressed needs by carving symbols of their needs into bamboo.Many people believe a bamboo is a plant, but is actually a type of grass. Bernstein & Miller polled 7,000 college students between the ages of 18-21 and asked them if bamboo is a plant or a grass and only 37% answered correctly.

Challenge

There are 14 leading theories on how we challenge something.Here is a quick synopsis of all 14:



This is an exaggeration obviously, but I swear, this is how the book reads, and it's maddening.He never gets to the point. It's just explanations of explanations.Plus, there are glaring spelling errors and other typos.Chapter 14 is titled, "Overcoming Sweating, Blushing and BB" and then on every page in that chapter, the title header mispells 'blushing' as 'blusing.' 'Blusing' wouldn't even make it through a spell-check, but somehow it made it to be printed on the header of every page of the chapter?

Any helpful info. one could distill from this bear of a book is lost by its expansiveness.After 137 difficult pages, I am overwhelmed with the 'why' and 'how' of my condition (and a lot of other useless information) but am so drained, if there is a 'so then...' I've lost the patience to read further to find it, AND I'm convinced that the 'so then' will be so wordy and convoluted, I won't know how to do it anyway.

Plus this beast was expensive!I want my money back.

Beware...Another book with fake 5-star reviews
Yes, this book is very well reviwed...But take a closer look at those reviews.
The 5 star reviews are mostly by people who strangely only reviewed this book.

Others authors have used the same technique to trick people like us (Breaking the chain of low self esteem; Discipline...)


Don't be fooled.

Frustrating to Read, but Informative
DIAGONALLY-PARKED IN A PARALLEL UNIVERSE... by Signe A. Dayhoff is an informative book that explains social anxiety/social phobia (SA/SP) rather well. However, the haphazard way the book was put together keeps it from being any better than 3-stars.

First, the Bad--

***Continuous errors such as missing words, misspellings etc. which happen every two/three pages and you start to wonder about the author's credibility. Didn't this book have a proof-reader?

***The structure is questionable. The first half of the book is devoted to explaining SA/SP, relaxation techniques, cognitive behavior techniques and medication. Suddenly, the book shifts to dating, finding a job, marketing yourself and networking, which is fine. But then it goes on into chapters dealing with the physical symptoms of SA/SP, finding a doctor and what to expect when getting help. Again, these chapters are fine but when you're reading along and go from medication to dating, it's confusing. I was left thinking-shouldn't I at least have this problem under control before I start dating and networking?

The following are also problems with the bookin my opinion:

***Image--there's a segment on physical appearance and the author states that people with SA/SP should keep their image up by not wearing "flamboyant clothes, have piercings, or oddly colored hair because this detracts from our positive image..." Excuse me, but positive image according to who? Society? The author's? Shouldn't we be more accepting of ourselves, whatever that may be, rather than trying to conform to some subjective idea of "normal?"

***Anger Management--BIG FAUX PAS--in this section the author suggests that when you get angry "you should take a time out and cool down" and one of the ways to calm down is driving somewhere. WRONG! Even the DMV handbook says you should not drive a car when you are upset or angry. It's even on the DMV test.

***Reward and Punishment--the author suggests to make lists and goals like reading this book in 2 weeks. Sounds reasonable, but in the previous chapter she writes that people with SA/SP have all or nothing thinking, which means that if you don't finish the book in 2 weeks you'll just abandon it altogether. But you make these lists, and if you complete the task you get a reward. If you don't, you have to punish yourself in some way. Dayhoff didn't go into what constitutes punishment, but I think people with this disorder have been punishing themselves long enough.

Now the Good---

***Good Descriptions--Plenty of examples and descriptions of what SA/SP is and uses stories from different people who suffer from it to illustrate the many forms the disorder can take.

***Terms for Negative Self-talk--provides terms and definitions of maladaptive thought patterns like "mental filter" that help you understand what is going on as soon as the thought pops into your head.

***Fear Assessment Exercise--this helps challenge irrational thoughts by questioning them on paper.

***Relaxation Techniques--Dayhoff gives different relaxation techniques for dealing with physical stress brought on by anxiety.

***Drug Info--Provides descriptions of the various drugs used to treat SA/SP, the side effects, and how they're supposed to help.

***Resource Guide--since this book was published in 2000, I'm not sure if most of the websites listed in the resource guide are still active but it's good that the author included them.

Anyway, the book is informative...but a chore to read. ... Read more

Product Description
Question:
* Do you feel shy and self-conscious in social situations?
* Are you plagued with self-doubts about how you come across to others?
* Do you feel physically sick with worry about certain situations that involve interacting with others?
* Do you make excuses, or even lie to avoid the social situations you dread?
* Do you make important decisions based on whether you'll have to participate in groups or speak in front of others?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're not alone. Millions of people experience social anxiety of painful shyness to such a degree that it disrupts their daily lives. In fact, as many as one out of every eight Americans will at some point suffer from what's called social anxiety disorder, or social phobia.

Social anxiety disorder is a real problem. But fortunately, it's also one that can be overcome.

Drs. Barbara and Greg Markway, psychologists and experts in the field, coach you every step of the way in this warm, easy-to-read, and inspiring book. You'll learn how social anxiety disorder develops, how it affects all aspects of your life, and most importantly, how to chart your course to recovery.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Maybe Im not...
I used to avoid people and any kind of social gathering. I was never painfully shy but I thought my avoidance was just a coping method for my social phobia or shyness or whatever it was. I think this book is for those who sweat bullets and turn red when they talk to a person, that was never me. Painfully Shy is for those who are painfully shy. Period. If yours is a slight social phobia or avoidance this book is probably not for you. I was never told I was shy. I just avoided people. Even though this books tells you a lot and it is good, it didnt help me with my situation. Or maybe I had already read many books about it and even shedded my shyness/avoidance to a great extend by the time I got this book so if you are visibly shy or at the beginning of your change process, read it.

Painfully Shy
As I am writing you today, I consider myself blessed I read this book. I know most people would agree that by reading this book you won't be magically healed. It will take time, effort and your acceptance. You will have to work on your own progress. However, I realize that in my case I had to learn to make friends with my bullies as a second skill. I have learned that in order to live our lives fully, it starts by one searching for the right treatment for yourself.

If you are like me, a shy person who felt bullied all the time, I suggest you also try: "How to Stop Being Teased and Bullied without Really Trying" by Izzy Kalman. It will teach you other helpful skills.

I hope you, like most of us who are in this journey, will find your way to the happy, successful, fulfilled life you deserve and want.

Best regards,

David R.

worth reading ...
just like the title, it's a book totally to read at least for one time to know about or solve the social anxiety problem. believe it or not, you will feel better after reading, even if you are not in such serious situation as described by the author, the book will actually calm your heart, teach you how to be a nicer person with a maturer heart :-) and of course, not only discouvering deeper into yourself, but also you will get to know more about others' real thoughts which can solve some misunderstanding in judging people. basically i feel this book tries to change a person's view toward the world, through which it also changes a person's social behavior. Some encouraging examples in the book are very helpful to achieve that. It's my first time to write a review here, hope that meaningful :p

Very helpful
After years of trying to fight against "my condition", I made most progress once I tried to accept it. I agree very much now with the approach recommended in this book, and re-read it every now and then to remind myself and check that I'm still applying it.

Not the greatest...
Painfully Shy really did not ease my struggle. I bought the book on the premises that I might be a social phobic, but I was still as lost after reading it as I was before. Some sections were helpful, but it just wasn't enough. I was sort of disappointed. But it wasn't a total loss. ... Read more

Product Description
This step-by-step guide to overcoming fear of social interaction provides a comprehensive overview and includes behavioral skill-building exercises that have been proven effective in most cases. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Very helpful
I have found the book very helpful in working through my social anxiety, both learning more about how my mind works to cause the anxiety and strategies for accepting the anxiety and working through it rather than fighting it.I haven't looked at any other books on social anxiety so I don't have a full perspective to compare it to other books, but this book has certainly helped me.

Useful resource
Socail anxiety effects the quality of life of many human beings.Ive worked with a number of individuals with this difficulty and was able to aid in their recovery through the use of exercise in this workbook as well as other modalities of treatment.If you are affected by social anxiety or other fears this is a helful resource combined with the help of a trusting therapist or counselor.Remember you dont have to livce thsi way and if you have a sincere desire to improve you certainly will.Believe in yourself and and you can conquer any challenge in life.Recommended as a resource.

Cognitive thinking
This is the first Cognitive thinking book I've read I found it very helpful and it really works. You have to do your part. You can't JUST read it. Its very interesting book too. If you'd like to just become more self-aware. There are other reasons why people seem rude or what not.

Somewhat helpful
This book can be used toghether with therapy (I recommend Dr Richards selp help series that you can buy on line). The book does not teach you how to change your negative thinking, it only teaches you how to create a hierachy for social situations to work with. It is only helpful if combined with other books/therapies.

this book is so self explanatory
This book was really a waste of time. When I was done reading, I was no better off than when I started. The beginning is really interesting in that it describes what kind of feelings go on inside the mind of a shy person. I thought I was the only one in the world who felt these things, and it was interesting to see them expressed by someone else in a book. So I continued to read on to the parts where they tell you how to get better. It said to try stuff like writing in a journal every day and to "think positive", "be assertive", and "practice making small talk". Like I didn't consider that on my own! This book really did not need to be written. What they could have done was just take the beginning of the book and sell it on its own as a short story or something, since it is the only useful or interesting part. After the first part of the book, it's basically telling you to go see a psychiatrist or get medication or both. It starts to get repetitive and is basically filled with the same useless suggestions that any person could have thought of, but they keep re-wording them throughout the book. So save yourself some money and don't buy this book. If you're interested in reading the opening part of the book, see if you can find it in a library. ... Read more

Product Description
Even though statisticians report that more than 37 million Americans suffer from diagnosable social phobia, common sense suggests that nearly all of us have, at one time or another, had clammy palms and knocking knees because of an intimidating, uncomfortable social situation. The party where you don’t know a single soul, the crowded lobby of a movie theatre, the presentation you’ve been dreading for weeks—any of these have the potential to ruin your week without necessarily sending you to the psychiatrist’s couch. The ten simple exercises in this book help readers shed their shyness and start socializing with confidence and élan.The book examines shyness by symptoms: physical discomfort, anxious thoughts, and bothersome behaviors. Solutions—based in clinically proven cognitive behavioral therapy—follow, directly addressing all three. Readers can carry the book in a briefcase or purse for last minute support and extra confidence. Once the ten simple solutions are learned, they will be constant companions, providing courage, poise, and composure when readers need them most. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Re the book on shyness and the one on "Clear Speech"
I found the condition of both books excellent. The second was particularly relevant to what I was doing, although I did get some ideas from the first.

I needed the books urgently and they were out of print in Australia, so I cheerfully bore the cost of the exchange rate and shipping. The books arived in good time.

PatriciaBryan
Dip. Oral Communication & Public Speaking
Certificate in Advanced Communication Skills
Train the Trainer Cerificate
Member of International Training In Communication.

Simple, But Unoriginal
I found this book and thought it would be the perfect reader to help me out without needing to wade through lots of information. I was wrong. Covering things such as cognitive distortions and medication, this book didn't tell me how to overcome shyness. If you're looking for some help in those agonizing social situations, I wouldn't let the simplistic appearance of this book fool you. True, it offers some very helpful information, but not anything you can't read elsewhere.

A Powerfully Simple Approach to Shyness
I've suffered from social anxiety for years, and have found many ways to avoid it.

My therapist recommended this book, and I have found it to be insightful, direct, and immediately helpful.

As with most books that deal with social anxiety, your progress towards alleviating that anxiety is really dependent upon the work that you are willing to do to complete the exercises that are outlined in the book.

I'm just getting started myself, but already I have a more hopeful outlook on being able to just be myself and accept what happens as I put myself "out there" in engaging in social situations.

I hope you find this book just as motivational. ... Read more

Product Description
Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is common and often underdiagnosed.It can interfere with school or work, and may cause difficulty with close relationships.In repeated trials, cognitive-behavioral therapy has proven the most effective treatment for this disorder.

Written by the developers of an empirically supported and effective CBT program for treating Social Anxiety Disorder, this guide includes all the information and materials necessary to implement successful treatment.The therapeutic technique described in this book is research-based with a proven success rate, and can be used with those clients currently taking medication, as well as those who aren't.

Using a model that focuses on how social anxiety is maintained rather than how it develops, the renowned authors provide clinicians with step-by-step instructions for teaching their clients important skills that have been scientifically tested and shown to be effective in treating Social Anxiety Disorder. Designed to be used in conjunction with its corresponding workbook, the therapist guide focuses on using cognitive restructuring techniques to help break the cycle of anxiety.When used together, both books form a complete treatment package that can be used successfully by informed practicing mental health professionals. Complete with session outlines, key concepts, case vignettes and strategies for dealing with problems, this user-friendly guide is a dependable resource that no clinician can do without!

TreatmentsThatWorkTM represents the gold standard of behavioral healthcare interventions!



·All programs have been rigorously tested in clinical trials and are backed by years of research


·A prestigious scientific advisory board, led by series Editor-In-Chief David H. Barlow, reviews and evaluates each intervention to ensure that it meets the highest standard of evidence so you can be confident that you are using the most effective treatment available to date


·Our books are reliable and effective and make it easy for you to provide your clients with the best care available


·Our corresponding workbooks contain psychoeducational information, forms and worksheets, and homework assignments to keep clients engaged and motivated


·A companion website (www.oup.com/us/ttw) offers downloadable clinical tools and helpful resources


·Continuing Education (CE) Credits are now available on select titles in collaboration with PsychoEducational Resources, Inc. (PER) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Great tool for a trained therapist/counselor/psychologist
This is not a self help book. It is a therapist's guide on how to present an evidence based protocol to a client dealing with social anxiety. If you are going to complete a protocol of this treatment with a client, you should also purchase the workbook by the same name. The research on this model and protocol are well established. It presents information in a way that someone minimally trained in CBT can relay the message to the client. It is a great resource that provides good examples, scenarios, diagrams and information. A must have manual for working with social anxiety.

Not helpful without the workbook.
I ordered this without the accompanying workbook, and it was not helpful at all--the book constantly refers back to the workbook.If you're considering getting it, definitely get the workbook, too. I felt like there were better books I could get for the cost of this book plus the workbook, so I returned it. ... Read more

Product Description
This DVD addresses the challenges many practitioners face in assimilating results from psychotherapy research into theirtreatment plans. Evidence-Based Treatment Planning for Social Anxiety Disorder DVD discusses social anxiety and its diagnosis; the steps involved in psychotherapy treatment planning, empirically supported treatments for social anxiety disorder, and how to integrate objectives and intervention consistent those treatments into a treatment plan. Role-play scenarios illustrate selected aspects of the empirically supported treatments, including calming/coping strategies, cognitive restructuring, exposure, and social skill training. A corresponding workbook can be used inconjunction with the DVD as a self-paced or collaborative learning tool. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

ExcellentResearchLiterature Review
Rather than being a book on social anxiety from the clinical perspective, this compendium looks at the condition primarily from the social psychological perspective. In doing so, it covers the interpersonal basis of social anxiety and looks at how self-presentation, expectancies, self-efficacy, interpersonal behavior, and motivation contribute to the subjective aspects of social anxiety - physiology, cognition, and emotion. While it addresses the experience and treatment of this condition, it should not be thought of as a therapeutic workbook or guide to treatment. Instead, it is a thorough, thoughtful, and informative review of the theory of and research literature on the causes of this pervasive and painful problem.

Social Anxiety:Book Review
I bought this book for purposes of continuing education.It is very well done from a scientific viewpoint and I believe many people can learna lot from it.The limiting factor of this book, in my opinion, is its 1995 publication date.In this field 8 years does make a difference in research and application information available.I would really like to see this book updated by the excellent authors, especially the last chapter which is entitled "Chasing Away the Butterflies".This chapter essentially deals with treatment.

I can't believe I'm the first to review this great book
The reason this book is the best of all anxiety books is because it's scientifically referenced. That means it's readable for students, patients, professors, and medical doctors. And there is some very interesting information in here. For example, blue-eyed people have more anxiety than green- or brown-eyed people, and this may be from a difference in neurotransmitters that help determine eye color! Hard to believe, isn't it. The reason why I didn't give this book 5 stars is because of their recommendations on pharmacology treatment of anxiety, or should I say, lack of recommendations. Throughout the whole book they have tried to be objective, stating that many different psychologists fight over the "proper" treatments for different anxious conditions, and that the authors want to give all sides equal time in the book. What they were not objective about is the fact that up to 50% of all anxious people will not be cured by psychotherapy alone, and do need (either temporarily or permanently) anxiolytic medication. And when they finally do mention anti-anxiety drugs, they mention some of the worst ones, including MAO inhibitors (NEVER TAKE THEM), and beta-blockers (can cause respiratory depression and severe low blood pressure). And when they mention benzodiazepines (valium-type sedatives), they say that the only side effects from them are sedation. Benzodiazepines are very important in the treatment of many different anxiety conditions, but the readers need to be warned that they can cause physical dependence---a truly important side effect. Finally, even though the book was published in 1995, they don't even mention SSRI's like Prozac and Zoloft at all. I can't believe they would recommend an MAO inhibitor and not an SSRI. SSRI's are just as effective for anxiety as MAOI's, but do not have any potentially lethal side effects. How does someone know if they need a benzodiazepine, and antidepressant, or both for their anxiety? The book The Failures of American Medicine details what anxiolytic drugs are appropriate for the various anxiety conditions, and is available here at Amazon.com. ... Read more

Product Description

Social phobia, or social anxiety disorder, is among the most common (and debilitating) of the anxiety disorders, and at any given time it effects somewhere between 3 and 5% of the US population, with similar statistics found in countries around the world. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been demonstrated to be the most effective form of treatment for social phobia, but research has shown that conventional CBT principles and general interventions fall short of the mark. With this in mind, Hofmann and Otto have composed an organized treatment approach that includes specifically designed interventions to strengthen the relevant CBT strategies. This volume builds upon empirical research to address the psychopathology and heterogeneity of social phobia, creating a series of specific interventions with numerous case examples.

Product Description
In Social Phobia and Social Anxiety, Stefan G. Hofmann and Patricia M. DiBartolo created a book that weaves together the research findings gathered by renowned minds across the various scientific disciplines: social psychology, clinical psychology, developmental psychology, psychiatry, and behavior genetics. Chapters deal with both theory and research; each one is written by different contributors, giving voice to many view points while still synthesizing the emerging data on this topic.Definition of what constitutes social phobia.Assessment of social phobia and its relationship to other psychological disorders.The biological basis of social phobia.Approaches to treating social phobia. Clinical psychologists and psychiatrists; social and developmental psychologists ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent - A Must-Read!
Lucid, sparkling, and multi-faceted, this book is a gem of high quality. Unlike other research-oriented books on social anxiety and social phobia, this one provides diverse conceptual perspectives from various scientific disciplines and deftly integrates their findings, data, consensus and controversies into a relevatory whole. This resource is for professionals and nonprofessionals alike who want to get outside the box to get a fuller understanding of the complexity and uniqueness of the phenomena of social anxiety and social phobia. Destined to be a classic, this book would be a significant addition to any psychology library. I enthusiastically recommend it! ... Read more