Does anyone feel like they can't fully focus on what is going on around you when in social situations?

[willnot-giveup]

I went to a party last night and I felt okay until I realised that I wasn't fully understanding what people are saying around me, it's like a feeling that I wasn't fully there and conuldn't stay focused. I have been reading a book about Social Anxiety and I think that it might be because I'm constantly thinking and worrying about how people might see me and think of me which makes my mind preoccupied all the time with very little focus left on my external sorroundings. I don't really get physical symptoms in social situations aymore and have progressed a lot, but I feel like the only thing that's stopping me to overcome my social anxiety is my inability to focus and my mind going blank. Has anyone experienced this before?

[Simoren]

I had symptoms from aniexty , decided to go socialize because I thought I was fine. Felt so disoriented, like they were speaking to me but idk felt weird , head hurt , acid reflux, lightheaded and I was frighten that it may get into a panic attack and it was ,so I left but the acid reflux got really bad .

[willnot-giveup in reply to Simoren]

Hi Simoren, I used to experience acid reflux and light headedness alot before but what I found is that if I excuse myself to the toilet and remind myself that 'I'm not in danger' ten times until I felt calm. I don't know if you've heard of the book Overcoming SA by Gillian Butler but it has helped me alot with my social anxiety. x

[Agora1]

willnot-giveup, you have explained the feeling perfectly...."your mind is preoccupied all the time with very little focus left on your external surroundings".. I think many of us can relate to that. I can bet during that time that you are most likely either holding your breath or shallow breathing which then bring on that "far away feeling". I've learned over the years through trial and error in what works for me best in social situations. It always seems to come down to deep breathing.

You have progressed a lot to the point of not getting physical symptoms anymore. Now it's time to turn your attention more to your mind and how you can help it to relax. Practice starts at home. Start today in working on proper breathing and mind calmness so that you will be ready for the upcoming social gatherings. And enjoy it x

[willnot-giveup in reply to Agora1]

Thank you for replying :), I have been trying to do the 4 count breathing and it seems to be working with calming me down!. I'm also trying to be aware of my negative thoughts which is helping too as I know if I'm being rational or exaggerating, I really have high hopes I can finally get over sa and like you said enjoy social situations even more. Wishing you the best x