Social anxiety

cheeko1001 · ‎19-06-2017

Hey im 28 and having been suffering deppression for many years.

A little history about my past. During my schooling years I got bullied constantly because I was short, didnt have any teeth and throughout ths years it has had a massive effect on my life.

I have got implants for my teeth so that's a plus. However due to the constant bullying I suffer from a bit of anxiety and its very hard for me to make friends. I just dont want to be hurt anymore.

So basically I have isolated myself and just keep to myself. However I cant do this forever and its getting very lonely.

Please help

Tufflife · ‎19-06-2017

Hello cheeko. Welcome to the site. This site will help u, there is many kind, gentle souls. Also threads on treatments, and services that can help u. It has really helped me. Also others story's will give u hope and inspire you.

BballJ · ‎19-06-2017

Hi cheeko1001,

Sorry to read what you are going through currently, from someone who was bullied in high school as well I know how you are feeling, I have never had a lot of friends either and making them I always have found tough. My first thought for you is, do you currently have any hobbies or things you enjoy doing? That is a great way to meet new people and the fact you already have common ground due to have interest in the same hobby will help to strike up a conversation. There is no great way to try and make new friends but it is making yourself a little uncomfortable and putting yourself out there. I know you do not want to get hurt again but you are older now and the people you meet will generally be older and mature, bullying is a real immature thing which is why it happens in school.

The other question I have for you is have you ever spoken to a GP about your depression and anxiety or even spoken to a psychologist before?

Please also remember you can call the Beyond Blue helpline on 1300 22 4636 24/7 to discuss any feelings you are going through.

My best for you,

Jay

MsPurple · ‎19-06-2017

Hi cheeko and welcome to the forums.

I think BballJ advice was really good. I think it is good to discuss your depression/anxiety and other concerns with your doctor. On BB you on the top of this page in the tabs go on the facts and do the k10 test. Most of the time your GP will ask you to complete it, some find it easier to complete it at home. It will help you see where you are at and it may help encourage you to discuss it with your GP. I struggled to go my GP and discuss it with them the first time I did it. One way that made it easier was me calling up and booking an appointment saying 'I need to make an appointment for a mental health plan'. That way the doctor knew what my appointment was for and they could bring it up. It stopped me avoiding it with them. I don't know how many times I tried to bring it up with a GP and avoided it.

I wish I opened up and got help sooner. I struggled unnecessarily alone for so long. Asking for help was one of the best things I did. I got a referral to a psychologist and psychiatrist and there I got on a treatment regime that really helped me with my GAD. I know you maybe nervous to open up and ask for help but I think in a few months you'll be glad you did.

On the forums we are a great support system. It should be noted that us forum users are like you, we are regular people some with mental illness and some carers. We are not professionals. We try help as best we can, but we do not have all the answers. I just want to remind you that you should always take advice from professionals over forum users.

Hope this helps. If you have any more questions you wanna ask us please do. I am an open book and happy to answer any questions.