Hi pinksunset,

I just want to say that you are not alone in this. I’ve also been feeling social anxiety for a long time, and I like being alone, reading and hiking on my own (like you), and I find it hard to accept feelings from others that are too overwhelming. I’m also struggling through this and I’m still trying to find a way…But I think that you don’t need to shy away from this friend, because like you said it’s wonderful to have a new friend, and we should be grateful for other people’s friendship. I think maybe you could imply to her that you don’t want to chat with her so often, and gradually she’d know. I’d be intimidated if any of my friends take drugs, but I think it’s ok as long as she doesn’t offer you any, and I’m sure she has her own reasons for using drugs. And never worry that your friend might find you boring! You don’t sound boring at all.
You said that you don’t want to expose yourself to awkward situations and I feel the same, but I think the only chance to get rid of this awkwardness is to step into it first… A theatre actress I like a lot, Sierra Boggess, said in one of her sessions that those who are most willing to be uncomfortable rise up the strongest, and I think that’s true.
And that’s basically my opinion…good luck with everything and be happy!

Angela