Ah there's nothing like the gripping, gut churning dread of a pending social engagement to have one running for the duvet, cancelling the alarm clock and turning all the lights out..... but under what circumstances are we affected the most and how do we cope?
At present, and this is getting worse by the day, there is nothing more crippling for me than the prospect of the humble 'party'. Many people who know me in a room having fun, music, dancing and happiness. This turns my digesive system to liquid, my mouth to a dusty pit, and my cardiovascular system to a rocket fueled race to panic, confusion and pandomonium within the humble confines of my veins.
I cope with..... avoidance!! Bravo me! what a clever old bean
Interestingly, put me in a room filled full of strangers, and I will very happily network my way around and them and come away with many fond memories and a hand full of friends. Put me in a room full of family, no problem at all. But a room full of friends and others who know me and oooooh no. What the hell is this?? Does anyone else suffer with this? If so what happens and what do you do about it?
Also, is there a link to agrophobia? I am starting to have to avoid society in general. I'm not sure if, after recent events, I'm now conditioned to cry in public places because every time I was in one it magnified the absence of my ex. I am so sick of welling up every time I'm in a pub or restaurant, or supermarket or carpark for that matter! that I'm just starting to avoid them in general now. I can tell this could be a slippery slope, and on thinking about this I have realised this social anxiety thing that I have always suffered from, but until now, haven't really put a name to or even considered could be part of my depression??!!
