Hello Nay and welcome 😊
Good on you for asking for support (it is a very big deal for most of us... It can be difficult for a while to post but so worth it in the long term once you find your feet). We'd love to know more of your story if you'd like to practice sharing?
I googled 'interesting conversations' recently to get ideas. It is worth looking into. Bethie's suggestion is awesome and one I found suggested often because it works (by the way Bethie it doesn't matter if you're new your advice is solid! 😊).
My Grandad told me as a child he had a really terrible stutter and was so socially anxious once. So he practiced. And then again. And again. Failures are ok. We don't get better at things without effort. He joined a choir. Took speaking classes. Met up with peers to practice. Phoned others weekly to practice having a conversation on the phone. He blossomed. But according to my Grandma it took time and effort and perseverance and surrounding him with good supports. So that is my suggestion to you.
Bethie is spot on about seeing a medical professional they will be able to direct you what is available locally to manage social anxiety (and also assess you and see whether you may need medication or similar until you have some coping mechanisms in place).
If you find it helpful you can join any of the conversations on the forums to practice. It's ok if you're awkward. I am too. We are all peers with issues too so we do understand.
I hope that you find the forums a help to you even if it's just reassurance that you're not alone in feeling this way.
Nat
