[missrainshower]

I have suffered with terrible social phobia for many years, I believe as a result of not being socialised as a child. I am sooo affected by it. Recently, well, about 9 months ago there was an occasion where I honestly felt like I was going to wet myself. Since then Ive been reliant on incontinence pads for reassurance. I havent actually needed one ever (at least not as an adult) but it feels so degrading and plays on my mind a lot.
Any ideas how I can wean myself off them?
The fear is being face to face with anyone. Thats anyone including everyone I have to be face to face with every day to so much as exist.
Im described as an insightful articulate person by mental health professionals, but theyve never seen me in an open social situation. I suppose it could be worse, but then I need it to be better too. Its such a vicious cycle.

[Bombtrack]

I feel bad for you.You could probably start by meeting someone online set up a place to meet and start from their don't become friends that are so like you that you feel cloned though

[madisgram]

have you ever described how you are in social situations to the mental health pros? it might give them some insight. just me, but i learned early on that how i used the therapy time was the most important thing i could do to improve myself. if they don't know this is bothering u, they can't help you.

[Princess Butterfly]

Sounds like the pads are a security thing.I know that might sound odd.But you feel safer with it even though you know you dont really need it.
My baby has a dummy at bedtime.
Some babys have blankets.
Some adults have good luck charms,Rabbit foot,Four leaf clover.

My secret is i take a small teddy with me everywhere.

Try looking for a self-help group.Start with 30 mins then 60mins.And once you start feeling comfortable just have a pad in your bag then gradually go without.
Make sure you do it step by step and at the pace your comfortable at
Maybe see your professional about some social help

[missrainshower]

I went to my first AA meeting on Friday and was fine although I expected not to be. Im going again Monday. So this week Ive done something big and coped. I think maybe I just need to get out more and have more of a life. Thanks for responding everyone x

[madisgram]

Originally Posted by missrainshower

I went to my first AA meeting on Friday and was fine although I expected not to be. Im going again Monday. So this week Ive done something big and coped. I think maybe I just need to get out more and have more of a life. Thanks for responding everyone x

WOW! congrats on your first AA meeting. that was a huge step!!! there are many of us here that go and as for me, it has changed my life for the absolute better. let us know how that goes, k?