seeking advice

[jenny1984]

Hi everyone...Before typing this email, I already felt that many people on the forum might dislike me (low confidence?)...like many, I have been rejected, deceived, insulted, and made fun of ever since I was little. I have no friends and did not hang out with anyone for almost 3 years. I have social phobia and hate everyone I see. I know there are nice people out there, but I just cannot stop thinking that either they are laughing at me behind my back, or they hate me before even getting to know me. I am very desperate for help because I am starting a job soon. I have no insurance, don't have much money, and am very negative towards people in general...so going to a psychologist/counselor do not work for the moment. My parents are very demeaning and guilt trip me a lot when I don't do things in their way. I am 25 now and I am still a mess...Think and act like a kid. Sorry for the long message...I was wondering if anyone has similar background as mine? If so, could you please share your story with me, and how you overcomed/are overcoming your social phobia? Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you! ::

 

[I_Walk_Alone]

Have you truly accepted yourself yet?


And maybe let those you care about in on it when you eventually do, and shame them into exepctance if they act negative. Which is more than fair enough!

Well thats just my warped wiew from an outsider-looking-in' perspective, whatever thats worth.

 

[Misterhopefull]

Even though it's not easy to overcome your problems, i would know,
just try not to feel sorry for yourself, at least i think that's what makes you feel worse, when you start to think you're the only one in the world going through that.

 

[recluse]

Hi Jenny you sound pretty similar to me. You have to realise that there are some nice people out there, the problem is knowing if they are genuine o'r not.

 

[danstelter]

Well here is how I did it: I engaged in regular exercise (a great anxiety reducer), found friends to give me emotional support (see if there are free anxiety support groups that meet in your area - some meet at local libraries or the local NAMI chapter), ate an anxiety-reducing diet (again very helpful - avoid caffeine/alcohol for the most part), took a small dose of medication (the lesser the better, and if you can stay off of it altogether that is best - ask your doctor about "patient assistance" which means that drug companies will let you have there medication for a small or no fee at all as long as your income remains under a certain level), and last I sought counseling (I know you said you have little money, but just call some local counseling centers and ask if they have "sliding-scale" counselors - I found one in my area that went for $20 per hour and I saw him bi-weekly). Anxiety recovery on minimal budget is worth it and is very possible, and this is the formula that helped give me success. Let me know if you have further questions!

 

[jenny1984]

Thank you everyone for the great advice!