Hi Thinktank,

I'm sorry to hear about how you are struggling ... what you are going through is NOT an easy thing by any means. I'm also a University student (first year), and trust me when i say that i can relate at least somewhat to what you have described above. There was a time when i was scared to even come out of my room because i didn't want to run into anyone in the hallway because i was too shy to have to make a conversation with them. It was so hard, and so i really know what you are talking about.

What helped me most though was just forcing myself to talk to people. To hang out with them, and convincing myself that i was just being paranoid at them not wanting to talk to me. Easier said than done, I know, but it does take a little time and effort for things to get better. I'm not exactly sure what your situation is like, but the more interaction with people the better. Its okay if you want to have some alone time, but maybe ask people if they want to watch a movie with you? If thats not possible (b/c of living arrangments etc) are there any sorts of clubs that you could join? Intramurals, or any sort of social thing that you could meet new people at? I know it can be really intimidating to join a group by yourself, so maybe ask someone to join with you, or start off with a small group of people? Just ideas ...

If you don't want to jump right in to that ... maybe just try getting out more often. Like when you feel like watching a movie or being on your computer, go for a walk? Go run some other errands that involve you leaving your house.

I hope some of these ideas help ... just know that you are not alone, and that you can change and things will become easier if you put forth the effort (although i'm by no means saying that you're not!!!)

Hang in there, and i'm always around if you want/need someone to talk to

Jacq