How you come across to people versus how you're really feeling

[Devondev]

I always put my best face forward, but no one knows I've been suffering from terrible anxiety the last 2 years and am on medication for it. They all know I had a stressful event in my life back then and I'm sure they think I'm"over" it now, which I am in a way, but still can't shake this awful anxiety.

To chat to me, you'd think I was my usual relaxed self - but far from it. I haven't told anyone how I really feel, and that a lot of things are a real effort now.

Anyone else like this?

I think that's pretty common. Do you think you shouldn't be like that? Is it causing you any problems? Are you able to be open with people when you need/want to?

Yes, I am. I can be perceived as very sociable and friendly but sometimes I can’t even get out of the door. I don’t always go to things because I can’t face it but make up some spurious reason as to why not. Anxiety is awful and I really sympathise with you.