Social Anxiety

[Furner]

Can anyone offer any advice on social anxiety. I never realised up until now that I had such a problem but when I think about it, my social anxiety has affected my life in so many ways. Whenever I go out I always believe people are not going to like me and that if I speak or do anything then I will end up making a fool of myself and everyone will be talking about me. I just used to think that maybe I had a face that people just didnt take to but now I realise that Im the one with the problem. This has affected my personal relationships with partners because I get angry and jealous that they are so confident and im so shy and scared and even affects my relationship with personal friends because I think that deep down they dont really like me or think bad things about me. I lack concentration and turn down opportunities for better jobs, education etc because I get worries that I may have to present myself and be put on the spot with everyone looking at me. I do realise that this is my thought process that is causing the problem but I just dont know how to begin to make any changes and how. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated!

[Silversky]

Hi Furner,

I have a similar problem... As I just found out I have an anxiety Disorder.

The best way is to see a doctor, they'll then most likely give you the option of tablets, or some sort of counselling.

Hope it works out for you.

xxx

[fat rascal]

it can be crippling can't it, like silversky suggests furner a good step might be to see you gp and he might be able to help you out with some counselling.

my heart goes out to you as any first stop will feel like a massive one to take,and in a way you've taken one by posting your question .. so you have it in you to want change.. go for it.

xxx

[electricblue]

Yeah i'm pretty similiar,but sometimes i can chat away to people,i find that if when i talk i think of myself talking(if u know what i mean)i get really tonguetied so just hang back and shut up,if i talk and don't think about it,then i seem to be able to talk,saying that, if you don't have no confidence,it is the worst feeling,i am there hun,as are a lot of people,i feel EXACTLY the same as you,but no-one is superior to you,everyone is on the same level,you are as good as the next person!!