To anyone who experienced chronic social anxiety

And overcame it...

What methods, mantras etc helped you to be at ease with People again, and not feel Less than others/unworthy?

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Strongtea · 22-25, M

I had some CBT, which did help a bit. The main thing was changing my living situation, I was at uni and living with people, but it was too much for me. I was able to move to a place on my own. I learned that it’s ok to socialise at your own pace, you don’t have to stay out all night with people, just go for an hour or only organise things with one or two people (this is a big one for me - large groups really scare me.) I don’t think I’ll ever not be anxious about everything, but I am so much better.

Coralmist · 41-45, F

@Strongtea Sorry you've experienced it too🙁 That's true to just go at your own pace.. I even read once for a date, it's ok to have it be a half hour..just to have a little snapshot introduction and it gives you some feeling about the person, and then work into a bit longer on next time.
I actually get more anxiety with someone one on one. I do get a bit in larger group but Def not as much as one on one. I feel so vulnerable and they're only have me to focus on, when no one else is there. 🥺 But, I know my mind is magnifying THEIR thoughts. Ugh. Distorted thinking yay!!
Ty for your ideas🌻

Strongtea · 22-25, M

Ah yeah, I get how one on one could be more daunting. I tend to ask a lot of questions about them (hopefully not in a way that seems like I’m interrogating them lol) which takes a lot of pressure off talking about myself (i clam up even thinking about what I’ve done that day!) I seem to get a bit pushed out of larger groups, maybe I need lots of attention, but not too much!
I hope you find some ways to ease your anxiety, you do seem like a really cool, interesting person. @Coralmist