Feeling Socially Inept

[5icarius]

Anxiety has been a problem almost my entire life, something that has gotten progressively worse with age, affecting my social capabilities. Lately, I've stopped working as much, and I spend all my days either gaming or working out at home because going to the Gym or even something as mundane as going to the grocery store is too daunting. I rarely talk to people anymore, and when I do I leave feeling embarrassed over the most minute things I say and reactions I see. I speak quietly and timidly, and jumble up my words. Flowing with conversations is much harder, and sometimes I outright halt them by saying nothing in fear of saying something wrong, and I never start conversations myself. Most of the time, I don't even know what to say, leaving me feeling awkward. Things like saying peoples names or even just saying hey or goodbye feel forced and uncomfortable. I feel overshadowed by others. Making eye contact is very difficult, and I often look down or rub my eyes compulsively. Whenever somebody challenges anything I say or criticizes me, I blush profusely and freeze up mentally and physically. Even if I feel 100% right about something, the moment somebody challenges it, I doubt myself. It makes me sad. I wish I could just be confident and act the same way around others as I do with my brother. I wish I didn't have anxiety just by walking by someone on the sidewalk let alone talking to them. I wish I had the confidence to just go out and make relationships. I hate feeling awkward. This is all just one of a few problems I've been having. Sorry If everything is a bit random. I just wanted to get my thoughts out right now and maybe having some long overdue interaction.

[Hidden]

yes you build up to it and if don't know what to say ask them how they are and take it from there. news, weather, hobbies and holidays - all good topics. they will just appreciate you made effort

[Thankfulforhelp22]

These feelings you have are not unfamiliar to me. Connecting is hard for me at times. People aren't thinking negative about you, you just think they are. I agree that showing interest in others is a good icebreaker as is a smile and a "good morning" or kind word. Lots of people go a long time without hearing a kind word.

Wishing you the best and praying for you to get better and connect with people.