hi i’m new !

Hi, nice to meet u, you don't have to be afraid when it comes to making friends. If u just let out a hand, I am sure someone will respond... I am very happy to make a new friend, do u want to be my friend?

Hey @kaiti18! Welcome! We're so glad you're here, and I just want to say first off: you are not alone! It takes courage to be vulnerable and share your struggles, and I admire that in you. I'm new to this community too, so I can't give lots of recommendations, but I know they have lots of great listeners and therapists if you're looking for one-on-one conversation, and helpful groups and forums on topics like managing anxiety. Have a browse around and see what you can find! I also experience social anxiety and I know it's hard. You want to be friendly and sociable, but it just doesn't come easily sometimes! Personally, I have found cognitive behavioral therapy helpful - to learn to question my thoughts and beliefs and discover whether they are true or helpful. That way when I'm in a social situation and feel anxious I can figure out why, and work on those things. Or perhaps I realize what I was worried about is not reality, and I can start telling myself the truth. It takes time and effort, but it has been really helpful. Sorry if that is a bit hard to follow - it's kind of hard to explain in a few sentences! Another thing that may be helpful, if you're able to, is sharing what you're experiencing with a friend or family member you can trust. There is absolutely no shame in going into a social situation with someone who knows what you're going through and can be there with you to support you. Just knowing someone has your back, or you can talk to them about how it went, can be really helpful. Be gentle with yourself. You are learning and growing. You are beautiful and you are brave. You are valuable, and you are so much more than your anxiety. Take care, friend.