It seems to me that alot of people who have anxiety/OCD have a hard time having very many friends. Not neccesarily (sp) anti-social behavior, just doesn't relate easily to everyone else. I have read alot of discussions in this website and this seems to be really comon. I wonder why?

Chrystal

I wouldn't say I don't have many friends. I just have a problem with "social" situations--large gatherings where you have to mingle and chit chat. There's something about that type of socializing that I have serious trouble with. One-on-one, I'm fine, but put me in a party, and I just hide in the restroom! No idea why.

My biggest issue socially was public speaking-still working on that.
Don't generally have a problem with large gatherings and entertaining. Just when I needed to give a presentation to a large group. Always had the typical sweaty hands, flushed face,( I was convinced that there was serious competition with Rudolph going on, ) anticipatory anxiety with thinking I'd mess it up or forget what to say.
My hubby and I have a huge family/friends reunion each summer- this year was different.
This summer is the first time (after completing the program) that I've taken it all in stride and didn't worry about every tiny, little detail. It all went smoothly, better than ever. Either that or I just didn't care if the dog stole someone's ribs off the plate.
Was sort of a "no big deal" if everything isn't perfect, and I had a lot more fun.

So anyway,
We're all different. Lots of common negative habits, but still unique.

God bless and hugs.

I have a cleft palate, it always seemed hard to just be normal around other kids (who looked normal and didn't stand out)

the funny thing is, I'm more concerned about my future/current anxiety rather than what I look like, I just thought it was amazing when I realized this and thought just how powerful our brains really are!

Its been a rough, people for me that is, Its hard to know other people when you don't know yourself because instead of being me, being my problem was much easier, and I am now beginning to work on me

thats my take