[Elmay]

How will I ever get a life if I'm afraid to talk to people? It's like I'm living in a nightmare and I don't feel real. I always feel really embarrassed because I always forget things and I can't concentrate on what other people are saying. I'm so sick of it

[Skeezyks]

Hello Elmay: I'm sorry you are experiencing this difficulty. Hopefully being here on PC will be of some comfort & support for you. I wish you well...

[Unrigged64072835]

Maybe a therapist would help you with your anxiety. They would help you learn how to be comfortable speaking.

I get anxious around people too. I fear I will appear to be an idiot.

Medication has really slowed me down. I 'lose' words mid conversation and get muddled easily. I am in a constant state of embarrassment. I described this all to my psychiatrist as that I have been dumbed down and lost a significant portion of my IQ.

If I must go out, I 'prepare' before hand. I find a current topic I am comfortable talking about. During the rest of the event I simply follow along (even that is difficult).

I will admit I go out infrequently. When I do I rarely initiate conversation. This is really difficult on me as I was once a very outgoing person who had a lot to say.

[Teanne]

Hello Elmay ... I'm new here also, and I know exactly what you are experiencing. I am not going through what you are experiencing right now, but I have in the past. My problem was diagnosed as a social phobia. I couldn't talk to people, and I couldn't go anywhere. I always thought everyone was judging me. Finally, I decided to do something about it. That was a big step for me. Believe it or not, the condition is treatable.

I found a good psychologist who did a written test (the MMPI), and he recommended that I talk to my doctor about getting on a medication. We explored my past and figured out why I was feeling the way I felt. He helped me take baby steps to confront my issues...one little "assignment" at a time. It didn't take very long before I was challenging myself even more.

At first, I thought that just because I understood what caused my problem didn't make it go away. No...it doesn't help instantly. However, over time with guidance, medication, and challenging yourself, you will grow and develop into a different person. Do I still have issues? Yes, I have some depression and need medication adjustments now and then...but I'm not experiencing any of the symptoms that you mentioned anymore. Please take that first big step and call a psychologist. You will be so glad that you did. Best of luck to you!