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.

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Social issues

CopingNow
CopingNow
Just wondering if anyone else struggles with social issues? I do fine at work for the most part as long as I do my job. I hate meeting days or times when everyone gets in their little cliques.

I went to a wedding yesterday of a co-worker. I really like her. She was the first person that reached out to me to help me feel like I belonged when I started there over 3 years ago.

Anyway, I hate weddings!!! But I went to hers. They didn't have a reception line at the church so I went to the actual reception because I wanted her to know that I was there.

I went to the reception. Sat down and immediately started feeling very uncomfortable. I was with other co-workers. I went to the restroom and when I got back the table was full and I'd lost my seat. So I decided I had to get out of there. The bridal party was still receiving guests so I found a back door and bolted. Doubt I was missed but I guess I'll find out tomorrow at work. Just hate, hate those situations. My hubby is the same way and wouldn't come with me so I'd have at least his support. I think after my major depressive episode last year that my social anxiety has gotten really bad and I need to figure out how to deal with it.

Anyway, thanks for thoughts or suggestions or even the acknowledgement that I'm not alone.
CopingNow
CopingNow
Well, Last year I wasn't coping. This year I made sure that I ask myself if something is a part of my job or not. If not I haven't volunteered to do it. My first year I tried to go above and beyond to belong.

I guess now I realize that it is just a job. I don't expect any of these people to truly become my friends. If one or two become friends its a bonus. But my priority is my family and keeping my current job.

I do sometimes struggle but I have other peers that do the same job in a different building so I contact them for support.
deleted_user
deleted_user
You did well, actually. As well as I would have, maybe better. I have problems with the same thing. I used to be outgoing, taught college classes.. not anymore. I have adjusted and stay within my comfort zone, but then, I cant work.

Be proud of yourself. Each small step leads you forward.

((hugs))
deleted_user
deleted_user
I still have social anxiety with friends I have known for years. Ive always got it but it used to manifest itself as overt behaviour. How I long for those days.
Take baby steps, a wedding was a big occassion, you made it to the reception, take some courage from that but try a smaller situation that you can maintain yourself in.
Never stop counting those small victories
deleted_user
deleted_user
You are not alone & many people are like you. Maybe some anxiety meds - most can be taken "as needed" for those social events you feel you need to go to.

Hugs
deleted_user
deleted_user
Your story echoes my life. I know what you are going through . . . I don't know how to deal with feelings like this since I have them myself, but I just wanted to let you know that we know what it's like.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I can relate too...when I've gone through the worst periods of depression it also exacerbates my social anxiety, which also increases isolation and withdrawal- urgh! Vicious cycle. I have to just keep pushing myself and the more I get out there and just keep dealing with the social anxiety rather than running and hiding from it the less power it seems to have over me. I know it's hard for people who don't experience this to understand these kind of feelings but I sure do ~ you are certainly not alone {{{hugs}}}
deleted_user
deleted_user
wow, that totally sounds like something I would do. I'm great at just spotting an exit and making a beeline.

I have general fears of the other humans, because so many are equally as messed up as me, but with violent and or criminal tendencies!
And especially lately where everybody is randomly venting about the economy and having no money. People get irrational.

Anyway, what helps me is realizing that mostly people take their glances and whatever they think, they think, and there's not a thing I can do about it.
If anyone is ever so bold as to say something snotty, I am more than capable of dealing.....HELL I've been getting around this city for 7 years by bus and walking and taxis....no choice but to interact sometimes.

You are stronger than you think as well. Sucks that hubby wouldn't suffer along with you. Most likely no one is going to ask you deep, personal questions or anything in a social place like a reception...and if they do there is always the option of refusing to answer...changing the subject, etc. LOL

I'm sure you know this, I am rambling yet again. -- try to snag back your confidence.

peace~