Hi Bun,

I have felt the seemingly “irrational” anxiety.

What I have done is to seek sanctuary in my routines. For the store I ALWAYS go to the same one at the same time when I KNOW I won’t run into people. I have my favorite and least favorite cashiers.

I also have pat answers and strategies for when people *shudder* TALK to me.

“How are you?” = “Good”/”Good how are you?”/”OMG, the weather! Am I right!?”

For the Uber, again, the routine. Get one at predictable times. Sing a certain calming song while waiting.

Become a pro at online shopping.

Have a set date to go with friends to shop, and get your hair done.

Sit in the back or in an aisle seat. If things get too much, go to the bathroom or the “I have to take this” phone call.

Get a counselor that specializes in anxiety when you can. And/or get strategies from the internet.

Also, people are NOT looking at you or judging. You know that intellectually, right? People are so freaking self-absorbed it’s crazy.

All the best,

Inky