Desperate for relief from social anxiety!

[TGMe]

Hello, I’m Todd and I’m fairly certain that I have Social Anxiety Disorder. I’ve lived with the anxiety of being around others in a social setting. I seem to come unraveled and haven’t been able to get myself together. I’ve lost a good job as a Case Manager for a transitional home, and now I’m about to lose everything I’ve worked hard to get. It’s been hard to even leave my apartment when I know I’ll be in any kind of social setting. Anxiety and panic strike me without discrimination. Any advice would be beneficial. I have requested an appt with a cognitive behavioral therapist, but I’m reaching out and trying to overcome the gut wrenching fear I have. I think this is a step in the right direction for I can’t live like this anymore.

[JLH96]

You’re going in the right direction which is a huge and brave step. You will find a way to manage this. As hard as it is try to remain positive. Trust me I know it’s absolute hell and I wanna punch anyone who tells me to just smile but your perspective is really important. Try to look at things from a more optimistic standpoint and know that your set backs don’t have to be the end of the world.

[TGMe in reply to JLH96]

Thank you!

[jkl5500]

Welcome to the forum! Many people here can relate to the type of anxiety that you suffer from. I'm glad you're starting therapy - it's absolutely necessary to conquer this condition.

You'll find a lot of moral support here.

[TGMe in reply to jkl5500]

Thank you. I believe I’m doing the right thing.

[arnoldpalmer]

Sometimes the first step is to admit to our weaknesses. And then from there, slow and small steps forward. Keep your head up, and don’t be discouraged when you take a step back. Focus on two steps forward and ignore when you take a step back. Press on!

[Hidden]

Cbt is definitely a good step

[ferris2424]

You are taking all of the right steps. I, too am on the verge of losing a job due to anger that has crept in to my life linked to anxiety and depression. I entered a 3 week program so that I could finally understand this stuff that I have struggled with. It is hard being a male and admitting this, but in the long run you will be better off addressing it.