8 - (3-MIN 2) A Review on Assessment and Treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder in Asia

While Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders globally, research on the condition in Asia remains limited, which leaves opportunities for further exploration and understanding. This paper aims to review and synthesize findings from 20 studies focused on the assessment and treatment of SAD within Asian contexts, exploring cultural nuances and adaptations. Literature search was conducted, and PubMed and Scopus databases were targeted. Studies published in the past decade were selected with keywords such as "social anxiety disorder," "treatment," "assessment," and "Asia." Results indicate that diagnostic tools like the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) and Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS) were widely utilized, and their validity across diverse cultural settings were highlighted, as well as the need for region-specific adaptations were discussed. Various treatment approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Internet-based CBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, were found to be effective in addressing SAD in Asia. Pharmacological treatment methods such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) showed guarantee but warrants more research. Despite increasing recognition of SAD in Asia, significant gaps in knowledge are evident, particularly in Southeast Asia. Culturally tailored diagnostic tools and innovative technological-based therapies such as Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) remains underexplored. This review emphasizes the importance of culturally informed methodologies to improve SAD assessment and treatment efficacy across Asia.