I don't usually enjoy talking on the phone but I taught myself to be able to do so calmly. I don't let myself get triggered by the sound of the phone ringing. I also just have my phone turned off and let messages go to voice mail often.

I determined for myself that it was important that even in the face of anxiety that I be able to use the phone.

Instant message programs became too exhausting for me to use. The multi tasking interruption aspect of im is what gets to me. Some of this has to do with the fact that I have fibromyalgia also, which can make my attention and focus skills fuzzy.