Hi Amy. I can relate to this too. I don't have panic attacks on the phone, but I don't much like using it at all. And I don't like instant messaging or chat rooms either. But I'm not sure that it's entirely to do with anxiety. It could also be personal preference. Not everyone is a "phone person" or a "chat room" person.

I agree with CedarS that instant messaging is exhausting (for me). And I find chat rooms exhausting too. I really think that's just about preferred communication style though. Personally I prefer emailing - or even texting - as a way of communicating with people who are not in the same room as me. I like to be able to communicate when it suits me best without feeling pressured to respond "immediately".

One thing that helped me with my dislike of the telephone was getting a a Smart Phone. I love it!!!!!!!!

If these things are really holding you back, then I definitely think it could help a lot to work with a therapist on these issues. Good luck to you! ((((((Amy)))))