Posted by Alara on December 11, 2002, at 0:18:06
In reply to Re: Anyone here with severe social anxiety employed?, posted by Michael D on December 9, 2002, at 8:56:37
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> I'm also trying to get my hands on some marijuana. I've never tried it, like you. I'm hoping that the occational dose of marijuana may reduce my anxiety enough to function in the 'real world'.
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Hi Michael D,I'm sorry to hear that you're having such a tough time but it sounds as though you have enough hope and inner peace to know that you will be OK. That quality of hope will make all the difference in your recovery. It did with me.
I just wanted to warn you that marijuana will probably exacerbate your social anxiety symptoms. I smoke it occasionally with my boyfriend and, when I do it, I need to be absolutely certain that I don't have to interact with anyone else. If you're inclined to worry about what other's think of you, you will be even worse under the influence of pot! It makes me utterly paranoid (and I consider myself a recovered social phobic) and this is the very reason why I do it so infrequently. Of course, you may be different, but I suspect that your experience will be similar.
You might like to try Effexor. It really took the edge off my social anxiety as I went through therapy. It was a nightmare to come off but, in hindsight, the journey was worthwhile. These days I take St Johns Wort and the occasional Xanax tablet. That's all.
As I have learned to accept myself and my social eccentricity, I no longer need to mask my symptoms with alcohol or prescription drugs. (Of course, the prescription drugs had their place but at the end of the day I had to come face to face with myself.) The inner peace will come to you if you stick at it. Be prepared to work hard at therapy. CBT is particularly good. Face everything about yourself whether you love it or hate it. If you do this, you have a very good chance of living a happy and normal life.
Good luck,Alara
poster:Alara
thread:131074
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20021210/msgs/131301.html