Hi Lex.........I have a few thougths on this, since the weekend around people issue used to be one that I could not have handled either. As I started learning more and more about overcoming my anxiety and avoidance issues, I learned to "trick myself". Like if I was invited somewhere like you are, I would just tell myself something like - absolutely no way I am going to even try to do that. THE END of story. That way I didnt get all worked up with anticipatory anxiety worrying about it for days or weeks. (The anticipatory anxiety was always much much worse for me than actually doing something anyway). I would sail right through the "waiting period" because I had already given myself permission NOT to attend, and I would stay calm, and then when it was time to actually go, I did. At least doing it that way, I didnt already have myself all worked up, symptoms galore, and dread and fear at their peak. Sure, once I got there, THEN I might be uncomfortable - but with coping skills, and even some "escape plans" in place should I have needed them, I actually would LIVE THRU IT ! My yardstick for measuring how I did in a stressful situation was simple - IF I lived to tell about it - it was a success. Someone else already mentioned taking things with u that might comfort you - I had a little bag of goodies - and things like that can help alot ! I also wore a rubberband around my wrist - and when I started feeling zoned out - the anxiety building - I pulled that sucker and let it go and OUCH ! BUT - I was then distracted, my brain changed gears, and the anxiety was at the least lessened. I dont know where u live, but if its cold outside while u are staying with the friends and you start to feel anxious - step outside, get cold, shiver, and break your train of thought about the anxiety. Oh the little tricks we learn while overcoming phobias !

GOod luck ..........I hope you can get to that party and have some fun ! You will never get better at being around people unless you start "feeling the fear and doing it anyway".