I get you! It’s really hard. I’ve had problems socially even though people think I’m confident. I just find it very awkward talking to other people.

I find it really hard when I see other people socialising, and they seem to just find it so easy. The conversations flow between them and I’m stood there like a melon. I don’t even know what to say sometimes. It’s worse with anyone in authority, and certain people who I have less in common with.

I’m afraid I don’t have much advice but my therapist said it’s pretty normal to experience awkwardness with people we don’t know very well. I think as well, a good bit of advice she gave was that if you’re very inwards while chatting to someone (e.g. you’re thinking what to say next, thinking about how you’re coming across and judging yourself on your performance in the conversation) you are less present and therefore the conversation is more difficult. Trying to actually really listen with interest rather than think about your own performance is a good skill and I think that helps with conversations! Although it takes a lot of practice ! I still struggle!