[Toddish]

I've always been socially paranoid to an extent, but lately it's just been ridiculous. I only get really bad when I'm in a sunken mood, and recently, I can only get out of this "funk" by drinking coffee...otherwise, when I'm with a group of people (childhood friends even), or in a public setting, every glance, giggle, stare, whisper is about me; they're criticizing me and talking about how strange I look. I tell myself this can't be possible, but the feeling of it being real is so overwhelming, I can't help but view these thoughts as more than just strong possibilities...

I've been working on cognitive tools, but they seem to be doing jack for me now...I'm really hesitant about medication, but any progress I make with my self esteem is only reflective of my mood.

[Kimaya]

Wish I had any advice beyond therapy or meds. I know how you feel.

My docs have tried to help with differing aspects of my personality. IE Prozac for ocd or depression,,,,,,,,,,,,Ativan for anxiety

[Astriferous]

I've been struggling with this for a long time as well. The only thing you can try is therapy and meds...

If you don't mind me asking, why are you hesitant to be on medication? Most of the people here (myself included) would be happy to clear up any myths/concerns if that's whats stopping you.

[cryingontheinside]

I feel exactly the same when in groups of people or on a busy train or bus. Medication helps a little. Because of the social anxiety i usually avoid going out or being around people but recently miy children have come to stay with me for the summer. Ive been taking them out most days and it has been hare still getting those paranoid feelings but ive been trying to focus on them and not me which has helped a little

[Luctor]

Going out on a limb here, but maybe try give up the coffee for a while, see if it helps with your anxiety?

I no longer drink caffeinated coffee as it blasts my anxiety through the roof, which makes me dread social interaction.

[nymphea]

Usually caffeine makes this way worse for me as well. I find that taking a bit of medication takes the edge off. You could also look into trying herbal supplements.

[Toddish]

I know for a lot of people coffee can make their anxiety worse, but mine usually boosts it to the point where I can't stop talking and I feel fairly pleasant...I have tried cutting caffeine out of my diet but my social anxiety seems to be present at the same level regardless, even so, I don't consume coffee more than twice a week and only when I go to work because it helps me focus.

I'm hesitant about meds because I have been on them before and it's been a year without them and I feel like some of my symptoms are still worse even after getting off of them...I have considered the possibility of age worsening my condition, however. I've made an appointment with a psychiatrist, so hopefully something will work out this time around.

Thank you all for your input and support

[nymphea]

It's good that you limit the caffeine. I drink it everyday so it's hard for me to totally cut it out. I limit it to mornings only and none in the afternoon or evening. Meds usually just mask the symptoms of the anxiety, so it definitely won't be a cure all. It's just a temporary solution. I'm sure the psychiatrist can help you out. Hope it goes well.

I wish coffee helped me. It just makes me feel worse, which is a shame because I really like coffee. I know how you feel, definitely. Alcohol is the only thing that helps me and that makes me feel really bad about myself that that's the only way I can socialize and not feel uncomfortable as hell.

[Astriferous]

Originally Posted by Toddish

I know for a lot of people coffee can make their anxiety worse, but mine usually boosts it to the point where I can't stop talking and I feel fairly pleasant...I have tried cutting caffeine out of my diet but my social anxiety seems to be present at the same level regardless, even so, I don't consume coffee more than twice a week and only when I go to work because it helps me focus.

I'm hesitant about meds because I have been on them before and it's been a year without them and I feel like some of my symptoms are still worse even after getting off of them...I have considered the possibility of age worsening my condition, however. I've made an appointment with a psychiatrist, so hopefully something will work out this time around.

Thank you all for your input and support

I hope everything goes well with your psychiatrist