Social Phobia and work?

QueenOfComps

Problem sorted.

timnicebutdim_2

Hi, what you said struck a chord and sounds very familiar to me, i often feel uncomfortable going into new situations and talking to strangers. For me, i think i worry too much about how i come accross to people instead of just listening and taking in my surroundings. Practice and exposure to slightly uncomfortable situations definitely helps though as you get more used to it..... The more you push yourself outside your comfort zone, the more your confidence and self esteem increases. When i'm nervous one way to approach things is i think look, i might make a t*t out of myself but hey at least i tried and if you don't like me, well tough ****! And also trying to enjoy a new situation rather than thinking "when can i go" helps too...

Failing that how about cognitive behavioural therapy (cbt) to try and address why you get anxious??

fizzytrinket

it sounds like you have social anxiety. this is a recognised illness and you can get help for it. you have to work hard though when you're going through cbt. it can be done good luck. go to your doctors and explain.

QueenOfComps

Problem solved.

Hermia

I think the first thing you should do is go and see your GP. My friend's husband has severe social phobia (he has no friends and can barely even speak to his in-laws). He got loads of help from his GP. I think he was initially given some anti-anxiety medication to just get him going and then referred to a local support group. He has now held down a job for a year and socialises with the people from his support group. He still needs lots of support, but he has come on hugely.

timnicebutdim_2

JemmaLouise20 wrote: »

i feel lonely and out of place like i just cant find a way too push away the nerves and chill and be normal..the more i try too be confident its as if my nerves shine through more.

It's bizarre how the anxiety suffocates....it's like you get tunnel vision and you just want to press the escape button and get the hell out of there! It can vary according to the situation for me, especially things like meetings, group activities, talking to my boss or even going to the supermarket (?!). Know what you mean about phones though, hate the bl**dy things....

I didn't realise how much info there is out there, just the first hit on google came up with the link below which i think is quite helpful. Keep perservering with it though and also try not to get too anxious about the anxiety as that just compounds the problem (easier said i know)... and as advised above perhaps a GP might be able to point you in the right dirrection for combination of help/support. Good luck:beer:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/social_anxiety_support_symptom_causes_treatment.htm

piggeh

I suffer from social phobia as well. In fact I also suffer from toilet phobia as well (which has ruined my life somewhat although is better than it used to be). It always feels lonely trying to deal with these issues as most people don't seem to empathise much about it.

I work in an office now, hardly any contact for the whole day with people. When the phone rings (rare) I find it difficult to talk and difficult to approach others in the office. However in my job before these were daily occurences and I grew to enjoy them somewhat. Because I was in a sink or swim scenario I was forced to challenge my thinking and it really helped in overcoming my anxieties. You need something that challenges your thinking and helps break the mental cycle you get yourself in.

CBT is a really great help in helping to overcome social phobias or anxieties. I would recommend asking your GP to be referred (don't ask for counselling, ask for Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). Also, the following website has some modules which you can work through and can be really helpful. The forum there is full of support as well:

http://www.livinglifetothefull.com/index.php

It is very daunting and I know what you go through. I was practically housebound for months when I was at my worst, but CBT really helped and I've started to enjoy myself a bit more in life.

exitroute?

I have been through this and my advice would be to do some voluntary work where you are helping people. I did this in a charity shop for a year for just a few hours a week and from that, gained alot of confidence with the general public. I am now at the other extreme in a way in employment as a receptionist.

QueenOfComps

Problem Solved.

SailorSam

I think wherever you're going to offer your services to they'll be that grateful for your help they want care who goes with you.
Don't think of it as an interview though, that'll only make you worry more, it's you that will be giving, they want you more than you want the job.

exitroute?

I really feel for you and wish I could come and help you. How old are you and are you male or female?