some days are better than other with the phone but generally I feel pretty anxious about using it. Trying to get through to a human being via the endless selection of this or that number.... sends me into an anxiety meltdown in no time. I can't seem to stay focused long enough and end up having to go back to the beginning until I finally give up and flail the phone across the room.

If I must make a call, I do as others have suggested, write down an opening script and list of questions. Still there is no guarantee I will make it to the end without feeling so overwhelmed at some point that I won't be able to talk without breaking into a meltdown cry and end up hanging up the phone unable to even explain why or say goodbye.

If I am going to encounter a 'pick-one' recording and I know my anxiety is high, most days, I will try to find someone to make the call for me. If they can get me to a real person I will try to finish the call but then keep my friend on the other phone just in case I fall apart and need them to take over.