Hi Tom,

Welcome to PC forums! You said that forums are new to you - this is a great place. We are very supportive here and we can talk about how we truly feel. There is no judgement here, only support. Any advice given is merely a suggestion and typically just a sharing of one's experience in similar circumstances.

I recommend you browse through the forums - the Anxiety forum may help you, as well as others. Post threads in any forums where you have questions or need support. The only exception is the gender-specific forums, forum for men and forum for women.

We also have chats and social groups. Check the calendar for the next anxiety chat. You can simply observe, if you like.

I don't know you, of course, but you sound like a kind, intelligent man. Rather than bettering yourself, it occurred to me that you seem fine just as you are...right now! And I imagine many women would feel the same.

It's easy to say, don't worry, be happy. Social anxiety is nothing to blow off. I can relate to this, too. If it is affecting you daily, seeing a doctor or therapist (preferably both) can help you manage it. This will also help boost your self-esteem and therapy really can help there. It's all confidential, too. It's nothing to be ashamed of but it is your private business and that's fine, too.

I hope you will spend some time here at PC forums. I've been a member for a long time and it helps me. Posting for support and replying to other's threads to support them makes for a great experience.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact a Community Liasion for help. Welcome aboard!