[Palmolive]

Hi Charlie

I've struggled with anxiety badly and at one point I didn't dare go outside. I became very isolated and can relate some what to what you're going through.

But honestly, I really believe more than anything, that the only way to beat the things that make us anxious is to do those things. And at the time it's going to be terrifying which is hard because it might cause you to feel negative emotional at first and even physical feelings that aren't nice but once you've done, I bet you'll feel really glad and proud of yourself. Imagine if everyone stopped doing things in life because of fear. No one would get anyone, so as hard as it is, I think you need to start putting yourself in those situations and socialising with people.

Of course you can go in a little prepared. Try practising some unnoticeable breathing techniques for example. If you start to feel anxious after you've put yourself in that situation, you can do these breathing techniques. Try breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. And you can also think of a list of conversation starters before you put yourself in that situation so that when you are in that situation you have a hole list of idea's of things to talk about. And that can be anything. The more you engage with people, the more they will engage back and that means, they'll begin to start conversations with you too. Remember, conversations are a two way thing - the work isn't going to be left all down to you!

I hope this helps a little