Overwhelming fear of ‘if we can all just go round and introduce ourselves’

[Allgoodthings1]

A couple of years ago I found I was developing some sort of social anxiety. I had no idea what it was at first. I just realised I was suddenly finding myself struggling to breathe or speak in really random social situations when I’d been fine before. I’ve managed to get it in control now with medication and went for some therapy. I seem to be out the other side of it but I go to lots of baby/toddler classes or even in work situations I find myself in a room full of people, the organiser says we’ve all to go round and introduce ourselves, say something about ourselves etc and I literally feel like I want to run away. I can feel my heartbeat get faster just anticipating it coming. I went to a new baby class this morning and was delighted to realise we didn’t have to do it but found myself getting really on edge at the start. I think my fear is just it coming to me and me sitting there bright red feeling like my throat has closed up and I’m unable to speak. This has literally never happened so I know it’s ridiculous 🤦🏼‍♀️ Am I the only person who gets this? How can I calm down about this?

You need a script.

And if you're person number five it's good if you can say:

'And I also...' and repeat what someone else has said.

It's validated their nervous announcement and given you something in common with someone else there - an ally if you like.

And you know it's socially acceptable because you've just seen the group hear it and accept it.

@shouldhavetakenmorenotice that’s a really good tip

@Allgoodthings1 aw bless you. This social anxiety subject is a very close one for me, I really went through hell with the self conscious blushing, sweating overthinking day to day etc. I remember a friend of mine saying that this intense shyness was just arrogance gone wrong. Like I was the centre of the universe but not wanting to be?! I'm a lot older now and so relieved to be free from that fear, but let me tell you and your wonderful advisors, that you are braver than you will ever know.

@Muddays aw thank you, it’s very true actually! You’re assuming everyone is so obsessed with looking at you. Glad you’re free from it all now. I am mainly, just a few things to work on

Oooh I like this

You definitely aren't alone! Honestly though, nobody really cares or is listening too intently. People are either panicking and scripting their answer in their head / not listening and thinking about what to cook for dinner, etc. Agree you need a short sharp shiny answer for work/baby stuff.

Hi I'm Emma. My little one is Ruby and she's 10 months. Nice to meet you all!

Hi I'm Emma. I'm the customer service team leader. I've been here 4 years, I just returned from mat leave after having my daughter Ruby.