Anyone else hate going shopping at this time of year

[Rolaskatox]

I hate crowds, I get really anxious in them. I always feel like I'm going to see people I know, or I walk funnily, or I look weird. I know it's an anxiety thing. I try mindfulness when I'm out and it can help to an extent.
I hate walking down busy roads (i don't drive) with endless traffic as I feel like everyone in their cars is looking at me and judging me.
I feel ridiculous but just want to stay indoors.
Does anyone else feel this way? I need to go out and get some fresh air though

Go to the park for a walk and order shopping online.

I hate the whole build up to Christmas, I know I sound like a scrooge but it's all about consumerism, I don't like the same Christmas songs playing in all the shops and the rushing around to buy presents

I also work part time in a 6th form and that makes me feel anxious as well. I don't look much older than the 6th formers and I'm quite petite, and I bet they're thinking, is she even a teacher? I got mistaken for a 6th former by a member of staff the other week. I feel so anxious walking around the 6th form, I don't know why.

I know this is patronising but have you seen a Dr about your anxiety. You are not able to function without intrusive thoughts you must be exhausted.

I have yes, I was prescribed propranolol which can help to an extent fortunately. It helps for the physical symptoms, but I need to seek help for the thoughts.

My partner works in a bar. I go in sometimes and he likes me to sit at the bar on the stools, but i hate the thought of the other staff listening to our conversations so i like to sit in a quiet area!

Maybe some Cbt or something. Speak to your gp again I know there is some online stuff your Gp can refer you too. Or does your practice have a mental health nurse?

Christmas shopping is very stressful I struggle with it sometimes, I do it in short bursts.

I hate shopping any time of the year, crowds, noise, piped music , tannoys, phones, queues. I end up overwhelmed and grumpy.

I work in retail 😂

Thank you, there are some good online resources I could try.
Some people seem to love and thrive off it, the hustle and bustle.
It drives me mad hearing 'Snow is falling, all around' in every bloody shop, every year.

I feel for you working in retail at this time of year!

I ve had some family illness these last few weeks my minds not been on it, but went yesterday to start 2 shops and I came home. I did a click and collect for things and hopefully I can pick orders up during the week.

I try to ensure all presents are ordered online for home delivery or in store pick up at a push

It's so hectic out there in the shops at the moment!

My main issue is the time it takes to get anything done, there's no "quick pop to the shops" this time of year!

I hate the crowds as well. That's why I had all my shopping done by the end of November. I also get as much as I can online.

Christmas food shopping drives me nuts! Shops are only closed for 1 or 2 days but some people shop like Armageddon has arrived! Tbh, I'd like to hibernate from October & rejoin society about April 👍🏻

Supermarkets are extremely busy and overwhelming atm I do agree. It seems worse this year or maybe I’m remembering it different. Vowed to myself I will only visit supermarkets for the next two weeks either before 8am or after 8pm!