How to turn down invite for drinks?

[BrusselSproutsRock]

How do I turn down an invitation for Xmas drinks with neighbours I don’t know without sounding rude or lying?
For context, I have long standing MH issues and severe social anxiety so there is no way I can go.

Thanks so much for inviting me, but unfortunately I am unable to attend. I hope you all have a great night.

Say you're not feeling too well or you've got other commitments. If you're interested in getting to know them then leaving your comfort zone might be something you'll be glad you did. If you're not interested then I wouldn't bother. Life's too short to do stuff you don't want to do.

They’ve asked me when would be convenient 😳

"Things are a bit hectic at the moment, I'll send you some dates when I can".

I would love to be able to socialise but I think I’m too old to change now. The prospect is too terrifying.

"Would it be OK if I just popped in for five minutes to say hi?"

It would just be me and the two of them though, rather than a bigger gathering.

You could just be honest and thank them for the invitation but you aren’t really one for socialising but you are always here if they need an neighbourly hand and you hope they have a lovely time.

OH, OK. How about inviting them to yours instead? You're not too old to change BTW. No one is.

Hi x, thank you for your kind invite. Unfortunately, I am not up to socialising at the moment but I appreciate you thinking of me. Have a lovely New Year.

This is perfect

Thank you, that is perfect as it is honest without over sharing about my MH issues.

This is perfect. By being busy or ill you're just kicking the can down the road.

Thank you so much.

Thanks everyone, sometimes MN is so helpful and supportive.

I think I will combine @purplecorkheart and @OatFlatWhiteForMePlease suggestions :-

Hi, thank you for your kind invite. I’m not really one for socialising but I appreciate you thinking of me. Have a lovely New Year.

That’s a perfect message OP, and remember, it’s not just you, loads of people wouldn’t want to go to their neighbours Xmas drinks and would say no too!

Thanks @Imperrysmum

You're not too old to change and get out your comfort zone bit by bit.
Don't make the mistake of isolating yourself from kind people.

Ideal. Hope you can relax now it’s addressed. Wishing you a peaceful new year.

I really sympathise OP

I really find it difficult to say no to social invites!

I'm well and truly a people pleaser and hate it !!

Yes, I’m really happy with that response. Happy new year to you too ❤️

Can't you invite them to yours instead?

That is just as terrifying a prospect for me.

They’ve replied to say they completely understand. 😀
That’s so much better than if I had made an excuse rather than being honest. I would hate them to think I was being rude or standoffish.