[Melmo]

Does anyone else feel like this? Its been this way since I was about 13. If I'm walking sonewhere I feel like people in cars or other people walking are stating at me. I get self conscious about my arms and what to do with them and think I look silly. I have a fear of doing something to embarrass myself in public. I get even more anxious when I cross the street because then I feel like all the people in the cars are watching me. Even taking out the garbage makes me feel like people are watching me and judging me from inside their apartment
Wondering if I'm alone.

[Ndscisyv]

Nope, not alone, Melmo. I have that too,especially with crossing the road while walking. I also have it really bad in restaurants and grocery stores. Lately, I keep feeling like there is someone is standing right behind me but when I look there is nobody there.

My therapist tries to get me to understand that most, if not all, of those people are probably not even noticing me. They are thinking about their day and their own worries. Who knows, maybe one of them thinks I'm staring at them.

Hang in there.

Yes, it happens to me. In public transportation, on the street, in the malls ... etc. This is called social anxiety I guess.

(waving hand up high)

Yep. I really have trouble with this. I've had some therapy that has helped some bit. I can at least go out in public now whereas before these thoughts were powerful enough at times to prevent me.

Still, I am constantly running through a checklist: am I walking funny? is my hair okay? etc, etc. In my case my inner voice is often that of my mom chastizing me for not being good enough, for walking funny, for having ridiculous hair, people will think I'm shabby, people will know I'm mentally ill.....

[Hobbit House]

My wife and I have a serious case of social anxiety disorder and anxiety issues can really cripple you from doing the things that most other people take for granted.

[JustJace2u]

It's not a constant thing, but there are periods when I do feel like I'm being stared at.

[fishin fool]

I think I have had that most of my life sometimes it can be bad and other
times it won't bother me to badly.

[BurmesePython]

Yeah i definitely get this too analyzing all of my movements what my hair is like etc
Buffets are my worst nightmare because im convinced everybody is watching me judging what i get etc

[ogeez]

Its true though,its in our head. I try to tell myself "do they really care so much about me"? No, and if they are looking its cause they like what they see and its a compliment, smile at them, thats what i do now- i smile at people, I say HI, and guess what, its feels good and takes away my anxiety- try it!

People have always stared at me. It's not a feeling, it's a fact. I don't like it but it's not legal to spray them in the eyes with mace so what's a person to do? Try to stare straight ahead and make pleasantries when required. When I'm in a positive mood I don't mind so much, but right now, it would send me over the edge so I don't get seen. Sunglasses can help in emergencies