Social Interaction is really really hard
I'd like to assume that everyone has had an awkward moment in their life where they couldn't think of something to say or they said something dumb. But lately I've noticed that I just can't talk to people in a normal, natural way. It's not like it's just a little bit awkward, I can't do it. I freak out and act weird and they give me a weird look and walk away.
I need a hand.
Comments
Hey @BlueEleven, thank you for reaching out! I can definitely feel this way.
Sometimes I think it may be the culture we’ve been brought up in, where we have to follow the norm of looking a certain way or saying certain things. There’s so much pressure and expectation to ‘get it right’. I struggled with it a lot in high school, always feeling a little bit different with what I had to say. And that is perfectly okay!! It may just be that people who are more similar to you haven’t come along yet. What interests/do you have? Would you consider joining a club\group with similar interests so you may find it easier to talk with them?
On the other hand, if it’s more the anxiety of talking to people in general, would you consider seeing a counsellor or professional to discuss how you are feeling about social interaction?
Hopefully I may have grasped an understanding of what you mean, feel free to respond if you’d like to share and explain more about how it is you’re feeling. ❤️
Hi @BlueEleven,
It's so nice to meet you, welcome to the forums!
It's really great to hear that you have a a close group of friends that you can be yourself around. 
When it comes to friends, I really do think that quality is better than quantity!
It also sounds like you're already taking some really big steps outside of your comfort zone by being a part of a sports team and charity club. You should be really proud of yourself for that, it is not an easy thing to do when anxious.
One strategy that you may find helpful when you are feeling quite stressed when interacting with others (and feeling your heart rate increasing) may be to focus on your breathing. Taking 5 nice long breaths in and out to help calm your body. There are some apps to help you practice this - like the "breathe" app here. There's actually a huge bunch of tools/apps listed and reviewed here which you can check out in your free time.
It's awesome to hear that you have some great support offline too! Your GP sounds like they have been really understanding and helpful, and I hope your appointment with the psychiatrist goes really well! It's also really lovely hearing that you've found Reach Out so supportive
