Dear KodenameKnd:

It is easier to be alone, isn’t it? So much distress being with other people: “I worry about people’s perception of me.. worry about how I act… cringing by the way I behave… worrying.. struggle to be myself… people please… people use me”-

it is easier to be alone. But we are social beings, born that way, born to connect and to be connected.

To feel more comfortable with other people it will take time and work, a gradual process of learning and practicing. In that gradual process, you will continue to need time alone. Everyone needs time alone. Be together with others for short periods of time, at first. Over time it will get easier.

Quality psychotherapy will help you to become more aware of what distress you so much when in the company of others, gain that kind of insight, learn to endure your distress, to build confidence gradually, learn effective communication skills, etc.

If you would like to share about the origin of your anxiety when around people, please do and I will give you more of my input.

anita