Staring

[dman]

Hi, Can anyone help me please. Over the last year or so I have developed a habit of staring at someone (random, in some line of vison) in eating places, trains, waiting rooms etc. I hate myself for doing it but I cant stop it, to the point it ruins meals out etc. I was reading this might me a form of OCD or Social Anxiety. Can anyone please tell me what this is, why it happens , what should I do, why is it Social Anxiety, should I speak to a doctor etc ?::::

 

[colin16]

Thanks for sharing. I am so sorry I don't have any idea about this.

 

[kihira]

I think there are some older posts about this, not sure what condition it may relate to. Definitely talk to your doctor about it if its causing problems.

 

[vanfuggle]

If the staring is getting to the point where you can't make yourself stop even though you want to, you should probably talk to a doctor. Maybe it is OCD.

 

[alanj]

When you do this are you crippled with anxiety and very fearful that they may be staring at you? Do you also have anxiety that they might be aware that you are paying attention to them and you are afraid of being caught looking in their direction?
I used to have this very bad when I was younger and I still have not fully shaken it. In Restaurants even to this day I will always sit where I don't have people in my line of vision.
Do you have anxiety in other areas where people are present?

 

[dman]

Thank you for your kind reply. To answer your questions, it seems something I initiate, sometimes doing it UNTIL they notice me looking. the crazy thing is I'm not nervous or shy although I've probably always been a little uptight. It doesnt happen in situations where I'm nervous although I'm upset with myself at the time for doing it, because I'm not exhibitionist or anything.

 

[Danedo]

Off the top of me head, sounds like OCD, in the sense that it is intrusive and unwanted.

You make it sound as if this is recent, in which case it might be possible it'll pass, or maybe you can 'think' or focus your way out of it.

If you can't, and it is really interfering with life, then talk to a doc. Don't worry, sounds like a 'simple' fix.

 

[alanj]

I agree with Danedo. If it was SA there would be a whole extra dimension of hell to what you describe. I'm sure it still annoys you but I feel you will get past it with some conscious effort and practice.

 

[dman]

Thanks , I've tried "thinking" my way out of it but hasnt worked. I think its linked in some way to passing low self esteem, self consciousness etc. Many thanks to anyone who answered, you are all very kind.