Hi all at SPW, my name is Gary, I'm a 34yo Australian guy who has been struggling with my social life for a long time. I don't experience a lot of the classic phobic symptoms in social situations such as shaking, sweating, or shortness of breath, but I have lived in withdrawal and avoidance, which has left me feeling very empty and lonely.
To me it seems like social phobia and depression are quite close, in the sense that the unhappiness and lack of meaning of depression can fuel the withdrawal of social phobia. I find myself depressed often, but I do not want to accept a victim mentality. I've seen that at other forums, and there is a real bitterness that comes through in the members.
I hope to get to know other people I can relate to who are going through similar issues as I. I want a good social life, I want to enjoy an intimate relationship, and ultimately I want a sense of purpose and wellbeing.
Thanks for listening.
Gary
To me it seems like social phobia and depression are quite close, in the sense that the unhappiness and lack of meaning of depression can fuel the withdrawal of social phobia. I find myself depressed often, but I do not want to accept a victim mentality. I've seen that at other forums, and there is a real bitterness that comes through in the members.
I hope to get to know other people I can relate to who are going through similar issues as I. I want a good social life, I want to enjoy an intimate relationship, and ultimately I want a sense of purpose and wellbeing.
Thanks for listening.
Gary
