I have a real fear of busy places. I live in a touristy area so summer can't be stressful. I love the quiet winters. During the busy months I tend to go out early or plan to visit places at off peak times. Get my shopping delivered. We go out a lot but I just plan to avoid any crowds. I struggle with queues, of course I can and will queue up but I get really anxious when in a queue.
In busy places I get really agitated, rapid heart rate and all round stressed. I likely have undiagnosed asd - another story. My dc are also on the spectrum and not fond on busy places either.
But my relatives ie parents don't get it. They really couldn't give a crap if they go somewhere extremely busy, in fact they like the atmosphere of anywhere bustling with people.
It's causing issues. I get invited somewhere I know will be heaving, I refuse and they get offended. Or they don't want to go out for the day until 3pm whereas I'm up and ready to go out early with the kids.
I get stressed with parking too. If I know parking will be a struggle I try and avoid things.
People don't get it but I know that many others are the same??
They could be a bit more understanding that it's a real fear right?
I was very much the same as a kid but had to grin and bear it most of the time to keep everyone else happy.