[Chocolatte]

So I've been trying to push myself to get out and get some exposure. I've been inside too much lately because I took the semester off from uni (due to anxiety) and I don't have much friends. Tonight, I'm supposed to be meeting up with 10 other people from meetup.com for coffee. I was looking forward to it at first because it is for people in my age group with depression or anxiety. But as it got closer I start to get more and more anxious, and right now I'm freaking out and contemplating not going at all.. I've been trying to find a group like this for a while now though so I know I'll regret it if I don't go. It's also their first meeting so if I go on future ones I'll probably feel like the odd one out because they would have all met at least once before. I don't really get anxious being around people, just with talking to them (I never have anything to say, etc). Anyways, what do you do to relax yourself? How do I make myself just go through with it? D:

Hi Chocolatte, I can really relate to how you are feeling. Congrats for bringing up the courage to decide to join this support group. Going there for the first time is probably the hardest part, but you can only gain from doing this. If the anxiety is just too strong to go, its not a big deal and you can still go next time. I doubt that it would be weird if you showed up on future meetings and not on the first one. Everyone there has anxiety so they should be very familiar with your feelings. If I were you I would arrange to get there earlier and get a bit comfortable at the coffee house. Is there someone who can come with you? If not, bring something that helps you calm down, like your ipod or a book. Is there a way for you to get in touch with the people who will be attending tonight? Perhaps it's too late for that now but an idea would have been to contact some of them before the meeting. Communicating with other anx/depr sufferers and hearing about their problems would show you that you are not alone and it might help ease your anxiety a bit. I know its hard but try to not put so much pressure on yourself. The best thing you can do is try to attend Good luck and keep us updated

["Tilly may"]

I agree, you should go for sure. Best wishes

[Chocolatte]

Thanks guys for the support and good advice, I'll try to remember them for next time. :'D I ended up going tonight but only stayed for a little over an hour. I just got back, it went alright. I was able to calm down a little bit once I got there and saw everyone, I guess it's mostly the anticipation that makes me nervous. I was awkward and didn't really talk as usual though but I think I'll give myself some credit anyways for at least showing up, haha. I'll try to go to some more.

[bootsiepries]

I'm glad you went Chocolatte! I too suffer from anxiety and am still working out the kinks in showing up for things I'd like to do.

Hey that is amazing! I'm so glad to hear that you went there. And one hour is a very long time if you were anxious. I'm not sure I would have lasted so long. You were very brave to go and face the situation. I hope you will benefit from these meetings..all the best