Fear of eating in public

[Somebody30]

Does anyone else suffer with anxiety that focuses around eating? I’m fine eating at home but trying to eat out is a nightmare for me. Even thinking about it makes me panic. I’ve had a few instances in restaurants where I’ve nearly been sick or felt like I was going to pass out and I’m not sure how I can ease myself into going again. I’ve tried CBT but it’s been no help and not sure where to go from here.

[Agora1]

Welcome Somebody30

I can certainly relate to you. There was a time that eating in a restaurant would

exacerbate my anxiety to the point in experiencing the same symptoms you have.

Eating should be a relaxing enjoyable experience. Anything other than that is a problem.

I found a couple solutions that worked for me. I asked for a table in the corner and then

proceeded to take that chair by the wall. Even though I was looking out at people, that wall

behind me gave me a sense of security from my anxiety.

Another thing that worked for me was sitting in a booth. Sliding all the way in so that I

was once again next to the wall. The booth worked very well because it provided me

with 3 walls around me. When I was working, I either brought something to read while

eating my lunch or on bad days, I'd go to my car and eat while listening to a meditation tape.

We all have to find something that works for us alone since we all respond differently.

I'm glad you are here with us. xx