The more I think about it the more I think I've had anxiety longer than I thought I did, or I am just and always have been bad at making friends. I don't think that, I believe it started at some point in secondary school.

Anyways, I know I have a problem with saying/doing things, I'm scared of what might happen if I do. I later realize I'm much more scared that I say/do nothing. Is there anyway of breaking these barriers. I am on Sertraline 50mg, which has helped with my ability to do day to day operations as I like to call them, things you need to do.

It's when it comes down to doing more than the minimum for most things, working in a shop has helped me realize just how useless at "chatting" I am, makes me feel sorry for the customers I attempt my social interaction on.

Is there anyway of destroying or avoiding the barrier that stops me doing/saying what I want to do. I feel I have a set of traffic lights at in my brain never letting things out.


I apologize for any stupid analogies, I speak in them for some reason.

Well honestly, i dont know, but during my practice on neuropsychiatry clinic, i heard that they are suggesting to some people with communication issues, to try and talk with themselfs and to develop a conversation(i know it sounds really crazy). And also trying it out with someone close to you (family friends and so on) might also help. You work in a shop, practice chit chatting there, its great place to work on it. Also educating yourself in common topics is nice and helpfull too in my opinion (sports,music,movies,fashion,politics...) :)

I'd heard about the talking to yourself before, I couldn't really get anywhere with it, makes me feel uncomfortable. I also don't know what to say, that sounds really strange. I'm not 100% I have issues communicating, it's more not knowing what to say or overthinking to the point I miss the conversation.

I don't just have the problems with communicating with people it seems to be most thinks related to socialising with people that I seem to jam myself up about. It's like I'll think of something but have a massive piping system which only lets a few things out

Hmmm maybe try thinking in reverse system, think about what would you like some random person that comes into your store to talk with you, what topic would suit you if they were to choose, and start that topic. Practice makes perfect, so practice it every day ;)

I have noticed that I can talk to stranger just fine, I had a decent conversation with a customer the other day. I tend to just lose anything when it comes to people I'm in a constant contact with.

I even found it hard to talk to my sister who I've always been able to talk to. I wanted to talk as well I just couldn't open my mouth.

It's quite "painful" going through each day making the same mistakes and regretting but it not changing the next time.

Thanks

Just endure it and work on it! Being close to someone can always lead to the point where neither you and other person dont know what to say, throwing totally random topic didnt hurt anyone,for instance just think of any movie you watched resently (i always use this when i dont know what to say, i find it to be very good topic from which a lot of other topics can come out). Good luck. :)