Is it normal to feel anxious when you're alone with someone you don't know/trust that well?

First of all, it's okay to feel that way, sometimes. You can first start communication sessions within your family or friends to raise your confidence and gradually you will be more comfortable to talk to other people also. Also, you can try this simple exercise called grounding yourself, that says, "When you are in a situation where you know you need to speak (in a meeting at work, or out with a group of people), but find that you are too panicked about speaking to keep the words in your head (or are too afraid of losing them once the spotlight is on you), just look around you and name (in your mind) the things that catch your eye: floor, table, desk, chair. Name them confidently and focus on that feeling of stability and correctness, allowing yourself to realize that you know exactly how to say the right thing on cue, and then use that confidence you have just built to speak your mind aloud." All the best.

I think so, the more you know someone the more you know what they are like, and so you know what to expect from them. But you obviously don't when you meet someone new and that might create some anxiety. I think it's normal but don't let it prevent you from meeting new people in a safe environment!

Of course it is, most people feel a bit anxious around people they don't know very well, especially if it's alone with them.

It's normal for you to feel anxious when you're alone with a person you don't know well or don't trust. It's perfectly normal. A lot of people feel anxious when they're alone with people they don't know. I think that's normal.

Yes, it definitely is! A lack of trust or knowledge about a person could lead to anxieties about your safety, their intentions, etc. It's always a good idea to have a safety plan in case you ever feel unsafe or like you would like to leave. A safety plan could include some (or all!) of the ideas below: 1. Message a close friend or family member your location. Some apps allow you to send a live location for 60 minutes. 2. Set boundaries - make sure the other person knows what you feel comfortable and uncomfortable with. For example, if you feel uncomfortable being with them in a private place, ask to meet up somewhere public. 3. Carry pepper spray (if legal in your area) in case of emergencies. 4. Take a friend or family member with you if possible. 5. Try to meet up in the day time if possible. 6. Have some emergency numbers on hand to call if necessary. 7. Make sure you have a backup plan to leave the venue immediately - such as a taxi or Uber. Public transport can sometimes be a long wait, and isn't always reliable in an emergency. You could discretely go to the bathroom and order an Uber if necessary, or set up a code word with a friend.