Any tips for social event, I have not been out in a long time, very anxious!

I have been invited to my partners Christmas party, it’s just a dinner with his family and work colleagues, but it’s at a very busy and big eatery. I haven’t worked in two years, my partners family know this. I feel like they think I just sit at home, all they know is that I have migraines. They don’t know I suffer from PTSD, anxiety, social phobia and agorphobia, not to mention manic depression.

I really don’t know what to talk about, I was hoping for some tips on how to have a conversation with them, they will be talking about work, I hate it. I have nothing ti talk about. I’m only going to support my partner as he’s been so good to me. I feel I owe it to him.

He’s given me the chance to not come, but I’ve made up stories I’m sick so many times, his friends and family don’t understand. I haven’t come to terms with telling anyone my mental health issues.

The few people I’ve trusted have just used it against me, so I don’t trust telling anyone anymore. I feel it’s better to keep my health problems private.

I’m still in two minds whether to go, I’m so self conscious, I’ve gained so much weight.

All I can think is how many occasions I’ve missed. But my other half of my brain says to just leave it, it’s not worth the stressing over and the anxiety it will cause me.

What do I do!?

[hypercat54]

Hi I think you should go as keep avoiding social situations only makes it worse. Your partner obviously wants you there and I am sure he will protect you if you need it.

Now get a new outfit, one you feel good in, get your hair done and look as good as possible. Then you can forget your appearance.

Don't worry about striking up conversations as I am sure others will and you can just join in if you want. People always love talking about themselves so if you are stuck ask questions.

If in doubt the best thing is always to smile and say nothing. There is nothing wrong in being quiet if you want and if anyone says anything just say you are tired and smile.

Most of all try and relax and enjoy yourself. x

[Hellandheaven-91]

I think you should go too, don't isolate yourself,i'm sure your partner will support you!don't worry about what other people think about you,you don't have to justify yourself for anything,just relax,if you feel like loosing control just take a little break,like go to the toilette😁 try to enjoy the present moment and just listen to others if you don't feel like taking part

[Windy101]

Hypercat is onecool cat and is right on with all her suggestons. I would add to NOT talk about your mental disorders. If anyone brings it up, change the subject. it's not the time or the place.

Do you write poetry, draw, do crafts, take care of pets, children? If so, these are things you could mention briefly that you've been busy with and don't downgrade it. "I'm working on some poems I might publish" or "I'm helping train the animals" or "I'm teaching Jamie to read" or "I'm refining some techniques for jewelry and might start selling it." If people demand details, just say "I'll let you know more later as time goes on."

Go, have fun, you deserve a nice Chrismas outing too.