Posted by mike lynch on June 20, 2006, at 9:01:39
I just came off prozac, and at most I believe it may have had a minor impact in decreasing the social anxiety I have, but while I'm off this med and doing fine, that is when gauging the reason I took it for (depression) I am wondering if my performance socially would justify continuing meds or trying different meds, even though the depression has subsided.
When I read some stories concerning social anxiety, I feel like I am not even close to that point. The anxiety is no where near the degree where I have trouble talking on the phone, or going to the store. The primary problem I have involves personal contact. What I mean is if I'm around a group of people, whether it be at my work, school or what have you, the only time I will make the initial social contact is if it's regarding an issue that absolutely requires me to talk to someone. When it just comes to intiating casual conversation, or contributing to any conversation, I am just to reserved to make the first move, or contribute in anyway. I am fine when the person makes the conversation and I just respond, but it just seems my ability to make friends, ask questions, enquire about things, and just not seem awkward is really hindered by my absolute fear to be the first to initiate conversation. It's almost like an inferiority complex where I feel I am only justified in speaking to them only if they give me permission, which is shown by them talking to me first. If I make the first social contact I might be wasting there time, or I believe they have this "why is this loser talking to me" mindset. It's also coupled with a "I'm not worth their time" mindset.
My anxiety doesen't even cripple my thoughts, I have the thoughts I'm just to afraid to convey them in the situations I described. There'll be things I want to say or want to ask that'lll be avoided because of my fear, as I will only go about approaching someone first if an issue arises that is of high importance, other then that I just can't talk to someone casually, or ask him/her something.
This is my position, and I guess i'm looking for thoughts, similar experiences, and suggestions.
poster:mike lynch
thread:659095
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060617/msgs/659095.html