I'm scared to talk to people.......

[SimplePlan]

I'm afraid to speak with anyone. It's stupid I know, but I can't help it I burst into tears I don't realize were there while attempting to give a public speech in school, I can't bring myself to look someone in the eyes, even talking to my only friend, mom and brother is a struggle. I feel sooooo afraid and alone all the time. I'm also always stressed out, and if I disapoint someone or make them mad I can't even be in the same room as them because I'm soooo ashamed and scared! I don't even know what I'm so afraid of, I know I'm being stupid. It's been like this for as long as i can remember and nothing helps! It makes me feel like crap when my brother teases me about it, and when my mom tells me I'm being ridiculous and forces me to go into a crowd of people. I just don't know what to do anymore for years I've been turning to music but lately it's gotten worse and the music isn't helping and I dont know what to do anymore! Does anyone get how I feel? Or have any advise you could give me?

[PSY]

First of all, welcome to TeenHelp! =)

Secondly, a lot of our members can relate to what you're going through. Some suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, while others suffer from phobias (social or otherwise). I would suggest talking to a psychological professional about the anxiety you're experiencing - while some of it is fairly normal (ex. fear of public speaking), some of it is abnormal and obviously interfering with your life. You could start off by talking to your school counselor... see if you can meet with him/her a few times each week in order to discuss how you could begin to work through your anxiety. If your school counselor thinks this anxiety needs to be dealt with by a therapist or psychologist, you could ask for a referral from your family doctor. There are also anxiety support groups all over the country, and you might be able to locate one in your city/town.

I wish you all the best. Take care!

[Dark Horse]

Welcome to TeenHelp!
I can definately relate to what you're saying! I've been this way my whole life too. It's really bothersome, but it's not stupid... Don't worry- there are millions of people out there who feel the same way as you do (including me) Therapy helped me a lot when I was younger, (I'm not sure how old you are?) but I've been told it gets better with time too. If you feel that it is really interfering with your everyday life, I do suggest going to see a therapist. I'm going to see one soon.
Good luck with everything, and remember; you are not alone PM me any time!

[Le bonheur*]

Hi & welcome to TH
I just wanted to tell you that you're not alone. Many people have social phobia. I have it. I endured therapy for 2 years so far, and it's helped me open up a lot. I can talk a little to people I recognize, but not strangers as much, and I still can't look people in the eye when I'm talking to them. I can not do presentations for school and as a graduation requirement we had to talk in front of 3 "judges" and I almost had an anxiety attack. It's NOT fun. However, with therapy, I've gotten a lot better and I open up a little more every day Good luck and take care! If you ever need anything feel free to PM me. You're NOT alone!<3