I've dealt with PTSD (from abuse), depression and general anxiety most of my life. Through years of therapy and daily practice I've learned to handle it fairly well. However certain things really set off my anxiety levels, especially constant loud noise and forced socialization. Anyway, there has been street/water main work going on in our neighborhood for the past couple months. It's normally very quiet here, but the jarring noise from the construction has been nearly a constant most days. I understand this is a normal part of construction, and I appreciate the hard work these guys have been doing. But there have been days I truly thought I was losing my mind, even though I'm not home all the time.

Now, thankfully the work is nearly done. But I just received a flyer saying there will be a block party on our street this Friday evening. Food will be supplied by the construction crew but neighbors can bring side dishes. I think that's very kind of them to do this but I'm petrified of going. I'm not good at parties or "forced" social situations where I barely know anyone. My husband and I know our neighbor pretty well and are acquainted with someone across the street. But most everyone else we used to know has moved away over the years.

Topping it off my husband hasn't been feeling well and was in the ER last week, and other sad things have been going on with his family. In short I'm not at my best. I feel so stupid...this should not be a big deal, but it is. My husband isn't in the mood for this either, but I feel if we don't make an appearance it will be seen as a snub. I don't want to seem rude or ungrateful. This is seriously stressing me out. Any advice or thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks