Social anxiety help

[Kevin87]

Hi everyone,

For three days this week I have work events, and I’m pretty anxious about it. I have social anxiety in situations such as this (parties, get togethers, etc) and am in need of some advice as to what has helped you cope?

A lot of the time I think about if I’m too awkward or saying the right thing, essentially being VERY critical of who I am and in some ways ashamed. Even if I don’t believe it the thought is there..

What if I don’t know anyone? Sure I have literally everything to talk about but....^^^

[Sunf7ow3er]

My anxiety kicks in too during special events. I feel like I’ve gotten used to it and so have the people around me. Lol

[pink83737]

i understand how you feel, i have social anxiety too! does your face get red from it? i get all hot and sweaty

[Cmarie12]

Hi Kevin87,

I always drank to much when I was out socially. It was a real crutch so I would act "normal" which wasn't normal at all. It has been 4 years since I had my last drink! Now when I have to attend a function, I always make sure that I drive myself, this way you don't have to rely on anyone else to get you home. Before going, decide how long you'll stay and then politely thank your hosts or if it's a large event, you can just leave. I find that if I can smile and nod and laugh when appropriate, you can get away without having to say much. I used to sweat a lot with my social anxiety but with age that has pretty well stopped.

I'm going to a wedding next weekend where I'll know very few of the guests. I've been struggling on what to do if it's so awkward that I may have a drink. What I've done is offer to be a designated driver for my sister and husband so they can enjoy the festivities and I will have my obligation to drive so I can't drink. It's a win - win.

Good luck and don't forget to breath, smile and nod...and keep moving 😉

Hugs,

Marie

[san_ray70]

If it is a work event you must talk to people you work with, a lot of people are socially awkward. My husband used to stutter when I first met him. We now run our own club for pensioners or anybody who is lonely.