Have I developed social anxiety?

[RedAndSweaty]

I've just got back from a dinner with friends where I walked in and almost immediately felt panicky at having to greet and make small talk with everyone. I started sweating and I could feel my face was red and perspiring. I had to excuse myself and go to the ladies to calm down.

This is happening more and more recently. I've always been a bit awkward in social settings - I've always felt like I'm acting a part rather than being my true self - but it's got really bad over the last couple of years.

Is this social anxiety? What can I do about it?

How old are you? Could it be the start of peri menopause?

Hi @pizzaHeart - I'm 44 but I'm already on HRT due to early menopause . . .

So maybe it’s related somehow e.g a side effect of HRT. When something happens suddenly I always check the side effects of my medications, just in case. Then if there were any changes in my routine e.g lack of sleep or had too much alcohol the day before.
Then I try to think what is exactly worrying me e.g a new person in a group whom I don’t like much. i find easier to deal with specific worry rather than a general one.

That's food for thought, thank you. I'm going to take some time and think about it. I don't feel that I look my best at the moment so maybe my confidence has taken a hit.

I just feel massively self-conscious and awkward - like I don't belong.