I wish I was more outgoing like you are. But having social anxiety and other disorders, makes it really difficult for me to interact or even being around people unless I've known them for many years. It's really hard for me man, but I am trying.
I have bipoloar disorder and used to have some major social anxiety that still surfaces at times. My ex boyfriend has the same diagnosis as I do, and a few years ago he started encouraging me to face my social anxieties by confronting the situations that would trigger my anxiety. Going to a crowded gay bar by myself was a huge one that still sometimes gets me. I started taking his advice and putting myself in these situations purposely, and it's had good results. I learned that my fears and anxieties were in my head, and that most other people are so involved with what's happening in their own head that they don't even consider why I'm there or that I'm alone, or that I'm awkward. Anyone who actually DOES have a problem with me being awkward, or simply being there, is clearly not the type of person who's opinions I should even give a moment of my attention to, because they're a bully. Eventually my real personality started coming out as I became comfortable and less insecure, and then I started making real friends and connections. Sometimes facing what you fear will help you move past it, and eventually you are going to have to face them or become a shut-in (which is the direction I was headed). Perhaps we can't relate because we don't have the
same diagnosis, but we both deal with social anxieties and mental disorders, and I'm telling you from experience that it's possible to face these speed bumps and get past them. It's important to be an Optimist, because we of all people NEED optimism in our lives in order to stay alive and to get the things that we want out of life. Stay positive man.
