Hi Jess,

I too have severe anxiety and panic disorder. I am on Benzodiazepine now and Busphar, which has helped alot with social anxiety. I had my Dad tell me something wise when I told him I was anxious. He said, why not do it being anyway through the fear and anxiety, it will never hurt you. And he was right. Just do it anyway. Date. Try calling the person instead of texting. I find texting impersonal as a means of communication. It’s too distant, and words on a screen can be taken the wrong way, especially when you don’t really know that person. Besides, you want to date this person right? Not a pen-pal? Ask for their number. Get to know them..do it even with anxiety and fear. They may too, be fearful and anxious. You may even tell them, you are a little nervous, they may say “you know what? I am nervous too!”. ☺