Age?

So I feel silly asking this, especially since there doesn't seem to be many people visiting this forum... I've been really interested in PsychCentral for about a year now, I read about the conditions and disorders, occasionally pop in to the forum but don't say anything, and I noticed that I seem to have quite a few symptons for avoidant personality disorder.
I probably don't, I get confused a lot so I don't really bring it up with anyone I know, but what is the typical age for this? I don't know how to explain... like a site said it usually appears by your early 20s? Is this right? I've tried researching but there isn't really much information on it. A lot of sites/quizzes say you should ask a professional if you're really worried, but I don't think anyone I know would agree with me going. I think they'd probably find the actual thought stupid, so I was just wondering what the typical age was? I'd really appreciate some answers It would take a big worry off of my mind.

I just wanted to welcome you to pc, hoping you'll find some answers here
I also would recommend you see a professional IRL (in real life) for a possible diagnosis though. We are here for support

I'm not sure about the age this would begin, but I agree that it might be in your best interest to seek help from a professional. Surely you are able to get to the doctor on your own? Could you get to the doctor without discussing it with any family members or friends? If this is worrying you, I would not ignore your symptoms. I have done exactly that before, and it only gets worse than necessary. I think talking to someone is your best option.
Best of luck in what ever action you decide to take.

I am over 50 and in therapy. Wanting to better yourself, to grow, to feel more comfortable in your life, to have a richer life full of close relationships ... are things to desire at any age.

Worries about feeling stupid is something to work on and get help with in therapy.

Age is not too relevant because symptoms evident at a certain age that don't get worked on are likely to continue until resolved.

Why not meet with a professional and see how it goes?

I have never been dx'd with Avoidant Disorder, but that isn't necessary for me to know I have it. The symptom are simple to understand. I had it as a child, but did not ofen experience the symptoms from the time I began to drink and drug at 14 until I quit both at 35. After that, I made sure to work constantly, so that I did not think about it. Symptoms became increasingly worse after I became disabled and unable to work. Now I have nothing to do BUT think about it, and it grows worse and worse. I am over 50. I don't think there is any certain age. I wonder if it's one of those things that, the more you ignore it [if you can], and better it gets. I DO know how hard it is to ignore! Remember that what other people think of us has less to do with us than with how we make them feel about themselves. billieJ