Thank you…and no worries. I didn't think you came across that way at all. I appreciate you sharing your experiences and struggles regarding social anxiety…sounds like you too been going through it for a long time as much as I have. Actually, maybe more so because your abit older than me. So you probably have more experience managing this. But Most if not all of what you've told me is what I struggle with too. And I do see what you mean…and it is related to performance. Performance to do well, performance to be well liked, performance to make no mistakes/ do everything perfectly…i think it's also a form of perfectionism too. I frankly don't like being put into situations that are beyond my control.I like knowing how things will unfold… Here, for instance I can plan beforehand what I'm going to say. Sure, it can be scary still…as hundreds of people are probably viewing this post but atleast I can't see anyone's faces. But I know life is supposed to be spontaneous, and for it to be in a controlled setting 24/7 is unrealistic sadly *sigh*
I remember in school sweating profusely through my clothes, and trying very hard to stop my shaking to a point where my arm and leg would go numb/hurt from staying in the same position in class. Getting up in front of the class was torture cuz if I made a mistake, I'd either A. Beat myself up over it or B. Someone would do it for me.
I do make the habit of going places by myself though…as I know this condition will only worsen if I don't make a solid attempt to step over these boundaries. I probably should be doing more as I'm way behind in life, but…I'm doing what I can.
I'm giving life a chance for now, as there is someone I'd like to get better for. I've even made quite a few phone calls…on my coherent days anyway heh. Still makes me nervous but I do settle in once I'm on the phone for abit.
Ahh sorry if this is abit all over the place. I'm scatterbrained. Hopefully I didn't miss anything important…I do appreciate you taking the time to give me such a well thought out message. Why it took me awhile to respond…I needed to get the wherewithal to match such a attentive reply:)
I hope this means your SA has become atleast more… manageable over the years. I know it doesn't just go away completely but…finding ways to make it more comfortable is ideal!