I have no idea why I have this problem.. I have a hard time in public places. I cant even eat in busy resturaunts. I hate trying to carry on a conversation with someone, I dont like to go out anymore, and its even hard to go to work. I feel so stupid and I dont know whats wrong with me. I just like to be by myself and alone. My husband is getting so aggrivated with me. Can someone help me please.

do you have the program ? I had these exact same symptoms and problems this is not an easy answer it is something you need to work on which is relaxing and not fearing the feelings of anxiety. My husband was so losing his cool with me and I don't blame him ( although at the time I sure did!!) Just last night I was able to eat out and have a good time ( although slightly anxious ) I never eat out because I too hate large crowds of people but we went to a really quiet restaurant, which helps. You need to take small steps and encourage yourself for each step along the way . the program will help you learn to use skills to get yourself through an anxious episode.. I will be more than happy to talk more to you about this because these are my problems too just let me know -Janet

The following links may help you. It talks about Social Anxiety Disorder and how it can be treated.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/anxiety/phobiafacts.cfm
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/anxiety/anxiety.cfm#anx5

I just got finished reading a book called Painfully Shy by Barbara G. Markway and Gregory P. Markway. They give some good tips on overcoming social anxiety. So you might check it out. I purchased it at amazon.com .

I don;t know if I can really help, but I can relate! I have social anxiety...I do my best to hide it, but I fear that everyone around me, including my 4 roomates, can all blatantly see my insecurity. I hate even having the smallest conversation with someone. and i hate that i hate it! lol. I want to interact with people, but still I turn the other way when I spot an acquaintance on the street, or on campus. I find it hard to force a smile to my face when meeting new people. I want to come across as friendly and approachable, but I fear I don't. I don;t want to make people feel uncomfortable, that's the last thing that I want. But I know I'm awkward, I know I'm shy, i've always been. The words just don;t come to me, I don;t know what it is, I just clam up. And when I'm in a public place I get dizzy, and confused, and I can;t focus. And when I go out to dinner, I worry that I;m going to stumble and stammer when I give my order to the server...i fear that I won;t be interesting enough for my company, or that I won't be able to think about anything to talk about. I worry that my boyfriend will one day decide I'm too boring, and dump me. Whenever I try to tell a story I get things all mixed up and I hesitate. uggghh...sorry I'm rambling...anyway, I know what your going through, all I can say is try to fight it, keep going out, and try to arrange more social events with friends and family, get out of the house as much as possible. You;re not alone!

Hi to all,

Social anxiety is one of the many anxiety disorders. One needs to first educate oneself, gather coping skills and tools, practice in a real setting (design it to be manageable), and be patient.

Use your program. Carolyn