04) How do you overcome social awkwardness? I have a hard time talking to people, like a really hard time. But it hasn't always been like that, I used to be a very outgoing girl, but randomly one day I found myself unable to talk to the usual crowd, or anyone really for that matter -with the exception of my family.
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Okay, so I'll be honest; this was quite a hard question for me to answer. Not because I don't have any advice - I have a lot of it - but because I can really relate to this question, and I find it quite upsetting.
Any form of anxiety is incredibly difficult to deal with. I struggle with anxiety, and it's pretty much the hardest thing for me to talk about.
Freezing up in public, and not being able to talk can be outrageously embarrassing, but the only person that's stopping you, is yourself. That's the thing about anxiety, it's all in your head. You create all these worries, and it's so hard to be free of them.
I'm no therapist, but really, there is only one thing that you can do - face your fears. Take a deep breath, and approach a crowd. It doesn't have to be a big crowd; go up to a group of your friends and sit with them. Try not to over-analyse the situation. Take a deep breath, and smile. Tell yourself that everything's going to be fine.
Listen to what they're saying, and try to comment. Or maybe ask them how their day has been; ask them how they are. Let them lead the conversation, so that you feel more comfortable.
If that seems too hard to do, then try approaching someone when they're by themself. Talk to someone who you know is really friendly, and you can be comfortable around.
Social anxiety is really tricky, and it only gets worse as time goes on - the more you isolate yourself. It's good that you can still talk to your family though. Is there anything that might have happened, that's made you uncomfortable at school?
Some people are just naturally shy though, and it's hard for them to come out of their ways. I'd just try to find friends that you can be 100% comfortable around, and that'll accept you, for you.
I'm sorry for this really terrible advice, but I struggle with anxiety too, and I feel like a bit of a hypocrite, telling you to face your fears, when I can barely face mine. It is for the best, though.
Maybe you should try talking to your school nurse, or seeing a psychiatrist. They can slowly teach you how to overcome your social anxiety, and give you loads of techniques and tips.
I'm really sorry for being so unhelpful :3 I wish you all of the best though.
Khaya xxx
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Teenage Dirtbags
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