Today a bunch of my relatives are coming over for a BBQ. I feel so anxious right now - - like preparing for them will make me reallly tired and I won't be able to stay with them as long as they're here.

Somehow I have to relax about it, or that will make me even more tired. I think it's time to take the dogs for a walk. I really need to slow down and relax, and realize they love me and no matter how it goes that won't change.

I just feel like I can't think straight though - - like I don't know what to do when to get ready. One step at a time.

Wow, do I feel messed up today . . .

[spondiferous]

You called it. One step at a time. It may be one *excruciating* step at a time...but before you know it you'll be through it and it'll all be over.
And yeah. No matter what happens, they will love you. That's my default safety mechanism whenever I'm worried about if I'm going to freak out, have a panic attack, lose my mind, fail at something, embarrass myself, etc. I just have to remind myself that 99% of the people there will be more concerned about my safety and well-being than how dumb I looked or how out of control I was.
Hopefully you are able to have fun today. Let us know how it goes.

[avlady]

i am also having inlaws coming over for a yard party and barbeque, i am freaking out because some of them don't get along, but hopefully they will behave themselves.

[unaluna]

I admire you guys for being able to have people over. I got an invitation for a shower a month away that I won't go to and I'm freaking out. And im old!! Good luck you guys. You can do it. I'll be thinking about you. Eat a hot dog for me

[RLB82]

My daughters birthday party is next weekend and I am already feeling the anxiety. My mom and her fathers mom haven't seen each other since the baby shower 4 years ago so this is going to be interesting. I nervous as well. I just keep reminding myself to breathe and it is what it is.

[No Fuse No Flame]

My mothers birthday party is tomorrow gotta travel 50 miles and see relatives known for saying rude and hurtful things. I'm trying not to think of scenarios where they aggravate me, its hard. But I will be there for my mothers party.

[lostincornflakes]

I recently went thru a similar situation. My daughters baby shower was given by the baby's dad's sister. Only had met her once and knew the rest of her family would be there. I agonized it from the time I was told about it. Somehow I got thru it and was able to meet the rest of their family. This helped a lot because Tuesday we all were together again for the birth of my beautiful grand daughter. My advice is to take it hour by hour and if needed take small breaks. Good luck hope it goes well.

I was wrong, the BBQ is today, and I am taking it slowly, moment by moment trying not to freak out that everything needs to be "perfect." Thank God for my awesome husband, who said he will take care of everything. (I know it won't be EVERYTHING, but he'll carry most of the weight.) That's just where I am right now, and that's okay.

[unaluna]

I'm glad it's not just me! This thread is very comforting in an odd way. My heart goes out to all of you.

[Mustkeepjob32]

A couple days ago some old family friends that I haven't seen in like 10 or more years came for a long lunch party. I was so worried before they came. My life is not that great right now and I don't feel like I'm at my best or living a great life worthy of interest, so I was I didn't even want to see them.
But when they started to arrive, I put my fear out of my mind and while I was very nervous at the beginning, beforfe long I realized I was sitting amongst these friends talking and realized that the hardest part was over. Plus, it was SO good to see them and catch up. I loved it and was proud of myself for going through with it. However, I was this close to just hiding out and not even making an appearance.

Z

I was so worried about nothing - - it went great! It, along with a good night's sleep last night, has really put me in a good mood today.

I was so worried about it being a flop, but everyone had a great time and things went off without a hitch. The best part was seeing my brother, whom I haven't seen since my severe depressive episode of a couple of weeks ago. I started crying tears of joy and relief. It felt so good to be with my extended family - - I really needed that during this trying time. We really only see each other on major holidays, and I try to have a BBQ for everyone each summer.

My anxiety is so much lower today, realizing I can pull off a stressful event without falling apart. Lesson learned for me: don't worry so much about how everything is going to turn out. Another lesson: keeping busy and accomplishing makes me feel good.

Just feeling grateful today.

[wiseskmrlady]

I always get freaked out over such y
things as well and I do agree...It is what it is!!!!

[Mustkeepjob32]

newgal2,

I knew it would be not as bad as you imagined. It sounds like you had a great time and I'm so glad! I had a great time too at my gathering and I definitely worried for nothing before hand. That is cool your anxiety has lessened knowing you CAN do it!

Z