seeking consumer source for helpful story on social anxiety

[stephstphn]

I write for consumer magazines that deal with mental health: bp (bipolar) magazine, Schizophrenia Digest and now a new one on anxiety and depression called Esperanza. I'm doing a story on the types of anxiety disorders (I have one too), and would like to talk to a consumer about how he or she manages social anxiety disorder, (meds, therapy, other tips). The magazine is published for Canadians and Americans. I do need a person who has been diagnosed.

The story is positive, upbeat, sharing. If you would like to talk to me, I would be very pleased. Will ensure you receive copies of the publication.

Thanks, and pls respond to [email protected].

Steph

 

[Butterflies]

Things have improved dramatically over the past 12 months.

Hi Stephen - I haven't officially been diagnosed - but I tell you something. I don't need to be.

I suffered for well over 10 years - you know when things aren't right. You see one of the problems with social phobia is you don't even want to talk to a doctor - so I have dealt with the problem pretty much on my own. I could give a list of symtoms and any doctor would recognise them.

Over the past 12 months I've been doing therapy (working really hard) home based. .... things have improved for me dramatically. I couldn't even go into a shopping centre on my own a few years ago.

I've started groups in the past to help myself and others - now I am thinking about getting my message out through newsletter. The techniques I've used over the years are pretty powerful and could help others. Most people would actually think I'm confident now (but they wouldn't have a clue what's really going on)

I have been though a long a hard journey (and the journey continues) - but I believe it can be a positive one. At times I would have prefered to die than live everyday like a nightmare - but things have changed for me -slowly, slowly. I now believe people who have Social Phobia are especially sensitive people who have so much to offer the world - if only we let our secret qualities shine.

By the way - what magazine do you represent?