New... and seeking help

[fighter24]

Hi All,

I've been reading and searching on this site for a long time and finally have the courage to contribute and introduce myself.

I have been struggling with social anxiety for around 3 years, it's been very up and down. Today it's finally taken its toll as I feel like I am hurting my friends as they dont understand what I am going through and it also makes them anxious when I try and talk about it. I am bad at approaching a conversation which is part of the overall issue.

Since it is now affecting my work and sleep, I have finally stepped out of the office to see a GP and referral to see a psychologist. I find it very emotional to get to this point, but don't think I have anywhere else to turn. I have a week to prepare myself for my visit.

Any suggestions or feedback about social anxiety and talking to a psychologist would be appreciated.

[quirkywords]

Welcome fighter to the forum.

Well done for writing this post and for seeing a doctor.

One suggestion when you see the psychologist is to write your thoughts down and either read from notes or show him the note

You could cut and paste and print this post as it explains well your issues.

Maybe if you wrote down what your social anxiety feels like to you as people experience it in different ways.

I am so pleased you had the courage to write your first post.

Please feel free to when you like.

Many people will read your post and relate.

You have done so well to realise you need help and are now getting that help.

Quirky

[fighter24]

Thanks quirky for the suggestion. Writing about it and showing what I have written above is a good idea. I was kind of wondering what the session would be like if I am not in the state I was in when I wrote this post. At least it will help start things off.

[labellepomme]

Hi fighter24,

I also sometimes struggle with social (and general) anxiety. Sometimes I feel as if it is hard to talk to friends about it as they don't always understand what I am going through. For me, I have found a psychologist is really helpful. It is very freeing to just talk to someone who is totally impartial and really nut out some irrational thoughts that its hard to share with others

Talking to a psychologist can be stigmatised, but after my own experiences, I have come to the conclusion that seeing someone to look after your mental health is just as important as seeing a doctor about your physical health. I would advise to try not to be too nervous about it and don't be afraid to let out your emotions and even cry. It can be odd to cry in front of someone who's a total stranger, but they've seen it all and trust me, are not judging you! It can be really great to just get out some emotions.

I wish you all the best with your struggle with anxiety. Remember that although it can sometimes feel like it controls you, you can control (or better control) it! We have the power to change our own lives if we just believe!

You are not alone!

Best wishes,

Labellepomme