Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
i've been dealing with depression since i was about thirteen when i hit puberty and started gaining some weight- which both my parents, but mainly my dad, would not let me forget (they're major health freaks and hated the idea of me becoming overwight). Anyways i've now moved out and live accross the country where i'm going to university and taking courses that i absolutely love. Since classes have ended for the summer i've been working full time.
I havent made a lot of friends out here and am finding myself feeling really depressed. I'm a women's studies major and am going to a conference in about a week in another province with a bunch of other students that i dont know very well. Ive been having major anxiety attacks over it, but feel like this is my shot to make new friends who have a lot in common with me. Im really shy and scared that i wont be accepted and will have to be the odd one out for the entire trip. Any advice on how to handle this? I'm thinking about backing out, but i know i'll just be angry with myself later on for not sticking with this and trying something new. THanks!
I havent made a lot of friends out here and am finding myself feeling really depressed. I'm a women's studies major and am going to a conference in about a week in another province with a bunch of other students that i dont know very well. Ive been having major anxiety attacks over it, but feel like this is my shot to make new friends who have a lot in common with me. Im really shy and scared that i wont be accepted and will have to be the odd one out for the entire trip. Any advice on how to handle this? I'm thinking about backing out, but i know i'll just be angry with myself later on for not sticking with this and trying something new. THanks!
It sounds like you have ambition and strong goals and I think that is a great quality in a person. I understand the anxiety you feel before an event that puts you around people you've never met. I would say that as someone who has suffered from anxiety and depression for years, you are probably being a lot harder on yourself than you should be. People who suffer from anxiety tend to perceive these situations as much worse or intimidating as they end up actually being. I think the best thing to do is to just look at the situation before you as an exciting opportunity to meet new people and remind yourself to just go with the flow and relax. I know it is a lot easier said than done, but I know how detrimental and burdening over-thinking/analyzing an upcoming event can be on you emotionally and mentally. Just focus on the opportunities and allow yourself to enjoy being there and just let the trip evolve on its own. Again, don't over-think or analyze it. Sometimes when I'm sooooo wound up and anxious about something, like a speech or presentation at work, the only thing that will help is to watch a comedy or look up silly videos on youtube; anything to make me laugh. Keep your chin up, hun. I think you will be relieved once you are mingling with folks and find that it wasn't nearly as nerve-wracking as you thought it would be. Go for it! You are CAPABLE and DESERVING. Grab the bull by the horns! You've got this!
:)
So my suggestion is that you go to the conference. Yes it may be scary but will be a great opportunity on the road to curing your social anxiety and may even have the added bonus of making some new friends, not to mention the educational benefit which may look good on a resume. This will be an all around confidence booster. You CAN do it! Well be waiting for a post to let us know how it went!!
:)