My social anxiety

[TheT33g]

ive only just found out i have sa mine didnt start till 17 or 18, im just thankfull i didnt have this in school that would of been unbearable, what pisses me off about it is that i had so many friends and best friends i could make everyone laugh and was happy a "popular lad" and now i just get drunk near enough everynight coz ive lost all my friends and it kills the boredom and kills all the stupid thoughts about embarrasing things ive done i just really need to get out of this hole NOW!

[darcymcr]

Good job for making this video. Sounds exactly how I feel everyday, you're not alone, and you seem like a really interesting and kind person, anxiety just fucks you up.

[socialanxietydisable]

Check my channel for a documentary on S.A.D. called "Afraid of People: A Social Anxiety Disorder Documentary"

[devilwearspradaguy]

Dude im 13 now and mine is horrible its hard to go to school every morning but this helped me.

[yoyo2ma]

At least you have a woman in your life and kids. Im 30 and have not even been on a date. I wouldn't know where to start. You are very brave putting this up and I can totally relate to you man. You seem like a cool and nice guy and I bet people see that.

[itsonlymejosh]

@yoyo2ma I met my wife online. The social anxiety isn't so bad online. But I had to be drunk to actually meet her in person. I developed quite a drinking problem back then. It was the only thing that would alleviate the social anxiety. It also turned me in to an alcoholic. I've been sober for over 8 years now though. I'm also thankful that my wife is very supportive and understanding about my disorder. You'll find someone. Just give it time :)

[sozialeisolation]

i do exactly understand you! we´re both the same age, and when i was like 20 to 24, things turned really ugly, and because i didn´t know what was wrong with me, things kept feeding from the ugly point. the MOST saddening part, is the fact, that all the wasted years are not gonna come back! they´re gone forever!

[MegaDreamer88]

this sounds like me. i donno wen you made this but I'm already stressing about this freakin family get together coming up. I always feel awkward.

[mrbbsdp2627]

you are not alone buddy, i am exactly like you,and it's very complicated.

[happilylil]

i am taking Vilift for my depression and anxiety disorder. it's really working for me and i love that it doesn't have any side effects.

[EndingSA]

I totally relate to all that stuff. Great vid!

[Biochips1]

I just got curious when looking at your channel. You suffer from social anxiety, but still managed to marry?

[BlazeHero005]

...You bet your ass off that I have aniexty disorders. Or more like half of the people on earth act like idiots. Geee what morons. Ummm... I try and avoid being anti soical because there was a part of time where being around people was great. -_-; I really can't stand being in my room alot all alone. I set some goals for my life. As soon as I achieve my goals, I'm going to make it.

[xtmotorcycle]

I have the same. Its so tiring and depressing. I CAN go to places wheres lots of people but its extremely tiring.. Im also always thinking about my looks. About my hair and clothes. If I buy a new jacket which I think looks nice, I start to think that it looks somehow weird in a few days.. I dont like to walk where people look at me, or can be looking at me. I know it doesnt make sense, but the feelings of anxiety come regardless of what I think. Im afraid people make fun of me I guess. :P

[richards1986]

try being good looking and not wanting people to look at you

[IanStrange1]

I can totally relate to everything you've said. It's good to know I'm not the only person who's extremely afraid of being judged negatively.

[rippemies]

Funny thing about alcohol, since most people say it helps with their soacial anxiety. I suppose it helps the anxiety for me too, but it makes me anti-social, and I hate it's effects on me. But keep fighting, SAD can be toppled. Good video, I can relate quite well to your situation.

[tonecly]

You sound almost like me. Its severe, looking 4 help,need help with this SAD. Im 34, in GA. I can relate to all! Its #@ck up!

[Metsada007]

Hi itsonlymejosh, I just saw this video about your social anxiety. I know exactly what you mean. I've been suffering from severe social anxiety for most of my life. I'm 32 years old and have never had a girlfriend. I'm still a virgin. Just wondering: how did you meet your partner, if you suffer from severe social anxiety? It's just unimaginable for me to have a relationship.

[flippy7171]

It seems almost as if your social anxiety made you go to the Christmas party, because you kept on thinking about if you didn't go what people would think of you like why you didn't go.. I hate that :(

[guest2424]

I have Social Anxiety Disorder also. Being in a job where I have to talk to people all day is not helping like I hoped it would. It is almost impossible for me to look into peoples eyes to talk to them for more than about 1-2 seconds (5 seconds seems impossible). Crowds of people make me nervous, even at a church where there should be no fear. SSRI pills can help, but quitting them has horrible physical side effects with your mind for 1-3 months and has no long lasting benefits after quitting.

[hailliesdream]

Im so tired of being afraid of people..I cant even go to my girlfriends familys house..I can hardly go to the store sometimes..

Im worried my g/f will get sick of the way I am...constant butterflies in my stomach when I even think about going anywhere

[b4we1]

famous on the internet? 168 subscribers ain't shit

[BigMikeflyDR]

I hate going out places because im afraid people will start conversations with me also, and im always afraid I might see someone I used to know maybe from high school or something and they will try to talk to me. At work the other day I was laying brick and like 5 people started watching lay brick and I couldn't continue building the wall because those people were watching me. I gave the trial to another worker and didn't even say anything, just stood there all clamed up and people walked off.

[Christopher711]

Josh, I understand about thinking that people are staring. I imagine that my boss is mad at me and wants to fire me.

[erinncarl]

Very brave, Josh! And it's good to know I am not the only one having these same feelings.

[RossPK81]

I have SA too.

[Cure4Insanity]

I have SAD as well, Im only 14 and i have a very low self esteem..

[gtwosaints]

I have that webcam and it's fine.

[DepecheEyes]

I can relate to what you are going through because I too have social anxiety disorder. In fact, I also would have these "catastrophic predictions" of being in social situations, that is, I would expect for the worse to occur. For instance, when I was attending School, I actually expected for my classmates to verbally abuse me even though it would almost never happen! So I would wake up each morning with intense anxiety and the whole day would turn out fine.

[mon3ymobKmurda]

i really like this vid cuz it's a serious issue that needs to be discussed. has a very documentary-like feel. 10/10

[imperfectlysane]

I've been suffering with SA for so many years but have only recently found out what it is.

Hearing you relate your story was a bit upsetting, I'd always assumed I was alone with this. Your video has really helped me to get my head straight. Thanks Josh.

[kbrmrr]

im pretty sure I have social anxiety,

I just turned 18, I dropped out of school, i cant order food, cant call people, cant get a job, cant do anything with out some one there to talk to people for me. when i get in front of anyone I go speechless, I don't know what to say. noone understands. my teachers useda call on me to try to get me over being shy. i felt like im going to die, freak out, about to pass out, feelin like im going to throw up.

Im really glad you made that video, Thank you

[illastic1]

you explained it perfectly.. I can relate to what you're saying.

[withinspace]

I am so glad you made this video. I am going through many of the same things myself. I have an incredible fear of what people think of me. I think I may see a doctor.

[bangthatdrumb]

I totally relate man. I feel like a wierdo all day long in public and sweat like a P.I.G. Stupid anxiety.

[guitarworld18]

yeah dude im 18 and its so fuxcked im in the same spot i live with my dad and finally after 2 years of telling mty mom somnething wasnt right shes taking me to the doctors,so yeah get some medicatiobn aint no shame in that dude.Its really embarassing going to the doctors and explaining it i have to go in a few days but yeah man i dont want to be a l;oser and go on disability so im gonna get sonme meds.

[NoCuntysPlease]

Ever Think that were all just Misanthropes. Maybe were not socially anxious we just HATE ALL OF MANKIND.

[NoCuntysPlease]

Maybe cuz you are weird and crazy. Embrace the weird and craziness in you. JK. I have it too. Your cute. I am attractive too. Let's get married and be socially anxious together.

[waddiwaski]

hey good video.I can really relate to what you've shared, planning out conversations, fear of judgement and just plain sounding like an idiot. You wife might do good to watch this video herself if she hasn't already, it might give her a better idea of social anxiety and why things are harder for you. You've managed to overcome a lot of the temptations that social anxiety can produce, like the tendency to drink to relax that social instinct.Its all really tough

[o00Sebastian00o]

The cat was a great ice breaker, Meeoow :-)

I can really relate to so much of what you're saying. I find not many talk about the alcohol side of it... which has really screwed me up along the way (together with marijuana!... great mix! *sarcasm*)

[guitarworld18]

I know what your going through man

[billfing999999]

ever tried Bert Hellinger Therapy my Friend?

Contact me if need further help, I have tips.

[pulsating123]

If you have bittorrent go to piratebaydotorg and search Linden Method and download it. I used it 4 years ago and this is the real deal. It is non medicinal and works. I used to be REALLY bad, I cant describe how bad I was in such a short comment box. Just do yourself a favor and do this. RELIEF!

[menaceofdennis]

Your social anxiety must not be that bad! You managed to have a child!

[pajamadude15]

logitech webcams do suck. I used to have one but couldnt stand it any longer. The cheap price justifies the quality lol.

[Telekon5]

I use to suffer from constant depression and negativity. One day a friend of mine explained how he learned that reality is created by our thoughts, and our feelings let us know what we're creating with thought. It might help to better understand how we create our experiences. The best teacher I've ever known on the subject can be found at abraham-hicks dot com. My life still isn't perfect but it's much better since learning that I create my own experience.

[countingdown27]

valium or xanax are great 4 it.... you should definately look into them... stay strong man.

[Casarzino]

my opinion is quite simple: when you are born, everyone is the same.. ever notice how 4- 5-year-olds don't really have a personality and basically behave in similar ways? Basically, we are all born with inferiority complexes.. we were all small and weak once.. the extent to which we lose that feeling is how we are treated by those who raise us... you have to look at what your life has been like and how you were treated and consequently how you treated yourself..

[Telekon5]

Actually, as children we have a natural understanding of our worthiness. Consider this, what's the first thing children do when accused of wrong doing. They blame someone else. This is because as children, we understand our innate self worth and will not let anyone easily devalue it. Being unworthy or less than is something we're taught. It is not natural to our true identities.

[ymido55]

It is okay to feel the pain of social anxiety. The problem is not the pain, it is what we resist and what we accept, basically the judgement. Anyone who is reading this, if you want to HEAL you social anxiety, you need to accept all of your thinking and feelings about SA, this will heal it. Don't descriminate what you accept. You need to experience it fully, FULLY FULLY before it leaves, Don't resist the awkward, embarrassment, the uncomfortable, the clumsiness, the weakness, accept ALL.

[rebeat2u]

thanks for sharing, ur not alone at all!

[gotgrim]

I'm glad you posted this, I watched the entire thing and honestly know where your coming from. Keep strong man, i've been through CBT and been on a few different meds *except xanex wich I seriously want to give a try seeing as to how it seems to really help alot of the people I talk to* and i've yet to find anything that really helps it thus far. But no matter what keep your chin up bro.

[RickyUK100]

Your right, It's an embarrassing thing to talk about, especially if your a man, but at least you'v got a wife and kids, alot of people, including myself have to cope alone.

[brendoshmendo]

every word you said also applies to my life. I hope since this video, you have made progress. One thing that has REALLY helped me is cutting out caffeine and sugar -God bless you-you're not alone

[shannonm75]

The story of my life...and I enjoyed your in- depth story as well. I hate the telephone. I can never call strangers. I can't make Dr. appointments, etc. And all the rehearsing as well is unrelenting...

[HipHopMessiah]

i know how u feel man ive had SAD for years now, the worst part for me is i blush realy bad when i meet new ppl, i lost all my m8s and job,

[052970]

The world is dying of mental illness. Blame the government!

[davidsghost]

Sometimes I wonder if if people have the actual disorder or perhaps people are so rude and katty that we go toxic on it. Over the past several years I've hated being in public places or dealing with people simply because they make me feel awful. A lot of people say hurtful and rude things with their "tell it like it is" attitude. I just think you are a sensitive fella with a kind heart and perhaps you know unconciously that people are too abrasive.

[circlewavetree]

i am totally feeling your pain. dont think for one minute you have to do anything that scares you until you have a safe or structured way of dealing with it. you dont have to be social at work until you are ready, just say what is necessary. my heart goes out to you i so feel your pain

[89DrAcoNiAn89]

What you need to do is not think about you all the time!! Speak out as though you were another guy! Social anxiety is a self-punishment we want to feel the acceptance of people, but that's petlike don't you think?

[ZetaXenimus]

I know how you feel: being 20 and tormented by an irrational fear of any person within a thirty mile radius myself is one of the worst sensations I feel man can come to know. Primarily because I know it's irrational, but I can't help it.

[dloffacs]

thinking about doing something to much is harder than just doing it.

[typalmer]

Hope you've found some help since this video was made. I've found Cognitive Behavior therapy and a prescription for Zoloft to be helpful for social anxiety disorder. Take care guy.

[TREW24]

i know just how you feel man. always thort it was depression but your description is bang on. thank you!!!

[JTPNYC95]

I think your not alone and your description accuratly mirrors my own.

[sabbath92001]

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) has helped me the most with my social anxiety disorder (SAD).

[wisemonkey108]

thanks for posting this brother

i know how you feel.

i had to go to my sisters wedding last week,i'd been worrying about it for the past year and a half.

People who hadn't seen me in 15 odd years thought i'd gone blind because i was wearing sunglasses on a realy dark and overcast day.

I think we have a lot in common as far as the mind chatter that goes on in our heads.

i'd like to keep in contact with you if thats all right?

all the best

[CharlesNigro]

You explained your symptoms and that's it? The only way to get a true diagnosis is to undergo an anxiety test. Have you ever tried the NLP Fast Phobia Cure, it's a very fast and safe way of dealing with your fear(s). I applaud you for posting a video on here, but I have to say that you need to openly come out to friends and family who don't know about it if you haven't already.

[lenepierce]

This is one of the best videos for social anxiety. -Lene. ebonygirl1122@yahoo.comis u well. :)

[jolt321]

Sounds like you don't have much confidence in yourself and your abilities. However, I can help you - just PM me and I will free you. I'm being entirely genuine.

[jimdrr]

You did a fine job. I'm 43 and I'm just now starting to look into dealing with this problem. Feel blessed that you don't have a stuttering problem. I've hated being around people my entire life. I'm getting better but it's a tough road to recovery.

[supercoolkid83]

you are one cool dude! very likeable. I think people with this problem are just think too much. Practice over comes the stress.

[xjun1]

iwas kinda of shocked when i watched your video because i thought i was the only person in this world with this condition. im 34 years old and i have had sa since i was 8 years old. i have been on most of the meds you have been on and the only one that has worked is xanax, but that is like putting a bandaid over cancer. iwas wondering how is that self help program working for you? because ive tried many but not that one. is it worth $300?

[adriott]

There is therapy available from DR Thomas tapes

[gbad40]

hey, your video really helped me out a lot.

[gbad40]

Hey man, I have the same exact issue. I have anxiety cause it seems like I never know what to say, how to say it, and at the right time. This video is like a reflection of me, and I know how extremely hard it can be. thx for telling your story, though. I hate dealing with people at work, I am a counselor at a jueville treatment center.

[filthysock]

Dude I so feel with you on this subject... you got a wife?! How did you handle the wedding?! Lol... I always wanted to propose to my x, I was so ready for being married, but the only thing in my way was my fear of her whole entire family watching me marrying their daughter, niec3e whatever... and all the people... I'm just rambling now but this condition can really stress you out sometimes...

[absorbantsponge]

ur not an idiot cause u really know wat ur talkin about

[absorbantsponge]

how do u find out that you have SAD socail anxiety disorer it spells sad LOL!!!!!! constanly u think of what others think and duh u try not to look dumb so yeah it sucks cause i still got skool and i got to stand up in front of crowds it makes me very nervous but once your up there ur nervous very alert and exited all at the same time its a great feeling! well thats just me if things go bad u screw up or sumthin just try again youll redeam your self before u know it

[adriott]

its a bit more than nervousness and shyness. its a constant phobia of every social situation

[crookshanks576]

I have been feeling really different lately, I stopped taking my SSRI's (celexa) and I have most if not all the symptoms for SAD, I have no idea what to do.

[BackwardTechnologies]

Hear'n ya brother :)

[darionv]

:oP

[AZboy207]

Don't suffer with this problem. Go see a psychiatrist and get on a medication. I had it untreated for 15 years and suffered unnecessarily. Also, try searching out CBT (Cognative Behavioral Therapy). I prefer the medication method as it allows me to get along and live with this problem. It seems so wierd but it is real and more common than you would ever believe. You do not suffer alone. Act now to start getting it under control. This is a treatable problem!!!!

[brantastic1]

I know how you feel. The difference is that my SAD directly affects the way people view me. Everyone thinks I am a klutz who can't do anything and is always nervous, when in reality it is just constant turmoil that no one understands.

[Forscythe87]

You make me feel a lot better. I seriously mean that. You basically described me 100% in your video. Feel free to drop me a message if you want to discuss it.

[darionv]

you were a bit drunk when you met your spouse in person and she didn't even know you were drunk

[itsonlymejosh]

Of course she knew I was drunk. The beer I was drinking probably gave that away :oP

[Yovtube]

well seems like you've followed your social anxiety well so far and you're working on it. in my case people actually stare at me like crazy. it is awful but I'm working on it.. but it is generally because people are huge assholes and retarded fucks with no manners.

[DonLettsmadetheClash]

didn't you realise your social phobias four yrs ago? im 26 yrs old now and usually dont get much trouble socializing.. i was very timid at school but at some point my shyness ebbed away. Its strange how social anxiety manifests itself once before u even interact with a person/group but when u get into chatting everything seems okay - think positive!

[C4mi11o]

thanks for this video.

actually amazing that you're able to speak so freely, uploading this, having the courage to share this in public, but still having this big problem when your having a direct interaction.

so it seems, that your mind is making a diffrence between the "realworld" and the onlineworld.

hopefully you'll conquer it.

i like you dude and wish you all the best.

greetings from germany!

[darionv]

how is it that you have social anxiety and are married?

how did you meet your wife if you are socially anxious.

[itsonlymejosh]

I met her online about 7 years ago. I have no problems socializing online. Also, at that time, I used alcohol to remove my anxieties. So I was a bit drunk when we met in person. I haven't drank in about 4 years though.

[Mech1000]

I understand what your talking about. I get that fear when I am in a situation where I have to be the focus of attention. Such as if I am sitting in class bored out of my mind learning nothing I can simply leave the class room. However "Getting up and leaving in the middle of a lecture, then everyone looking at me and the teacher its just crazy :) But just keep saying "No one really cares, I can do this"

[Casarzino]

may sound like amateur psychology to some but I think wrong educations, abnormal family environments, are the frequent causes of so-called "mental illnesses". When parents fail to transmit moral strength, because they have little of it themselves, that's when you get character problems that cause over-sensitivity, and subsequently stuff called "social anxiety disorders". It is caused by a lack of real love and respect and the basis for that needs to be given by the family environment.

[DoctorFist]

Your description of an abnormal family environment is something I identify with completely, almost as much as I do with the person in this video. I already sent you an e-mail about this, but would you care to elaborate on a solution that you may have found? I'm still searching, have had temporary successes..

[DoctorFist]

aah..yes, now i see you have responded to my e-mail. So i guess there's not much to add! I'll send my message in a while, when i compose my thoughts

[Casarzino]

I've been having problems with depression and social anxiety and recently I've done some soul searching and the thing is I grew in this really protective family environment (as an only child) that has been suffocating my personality, without me realising it, and it prevented me from building a normal sense of self esteem. I think if we all think it through the root of the problem is there, growing up in families that protect you and cuddle you without realising that is not real love.

[damiancopado]

thats very similar to my experience where I was smothered and suffocated by an overprotective mother, now is my opportunity to gain a real and healthy sense of self esteem

[Casarzino]

there is no social anxiety disorder. It's just sensitive people caring too much about making themselves look good because they have low self esteem either because of negative social experiences, or overly protective family environment (which usually causes a wrong frame of mind which causes wrong reactions to experiences where you have to show character, etc.). This is not a mental illness, in fact there are no mental illnesses.

[skunkworx4]

I have to say that you are completely right. Great comment!! My mother was far too strict. You just made me realise that. thankyou!

[Casarzino]

that's nice to hear. I think the first step to solving problems is being able to see them as what they are, without buying into gobbledygook like "depression", "social disorder".. blablabla.. everyone is unique and has their own story.. you have to look at the problem and elaborate it, think about it, face it... and then try to find within yourself what you believe in and what your vision of life is..

[pulsating123]

Facing these things is VERY important and it requires bravery. A lot of people, oddly enough, are "comfortable" with their anxiety and DO NOT want to face it and change their behavior. I cured my anxiety with the Linden Method and sometimes when I tell other anxiety sufferers how to do it and what it involves they get PIIISSSSED because it involves CHANGE.

[mayoush155]

and how can you face it?

[kev3b2006]

you know what people, i have this disorder and what we all should do is just pray to god about it and ask him for help. take it or leave it, god does bless. 1

[semoo201]

okay so how do you get over this phobia ? is there any medication for it !? does it work ?!!

[sebsebsebseb11]

I'm 18 and have had this problem for about 5 years. To say the least it has destroyed my life. The thing is were not crazy because we know what were doing is crazy!

[sebsebsebseb11]

I knew other people had this disorder but I never knew how accurate your symptoms are to mine. Everything you were saying i experience. The fear of making a fool of yourself, the mind running blank in social settings the replaying of 100s of situations the overall stress of doing this to ourselves. I just wanted to post on this video which i have never done really before because it has opened my eyes.

[sebsebsebseb11]

Wow man just wow.

[kozes]

i feel almost 100% identical to how you described the way you feel. the store any kind of social event the phone alcohol. its frustrating too because i want to do all these fun things other people do

[semoo201]

hey josh .. i have the same phobia like you man but i have no idea wat to do about it ..what do you think would help ? or what did you do ? pls answer me cause i am really losing hope and giving up ..

[tangararama]

Hey Josh, thanks for sharing that. I watched it all the way through. You are very brave. Keep up the great work.

[rumpel1967]

Don't let social anxiety ruin your life! Go to your regular family doctor. Tell them your symptoms. They can prescribe to you a low dose of Inderal to take minutes before you enter a situation. 10mg placed under the tongue is enough. It will eliminate all of your symptoms. No more trembling, pounding heart, sweaty hands. Try Inderal first, then look into other drugs such as Paxil.

[itsonlymejosh]

I've actually taken Inderal before and it worked great. I've tried many other drugs too...Paxil, Celexa, Zoloft, Seroquel... You name it and I've tried it.

I haven't been to a doctor or therapist for over a year though and have been off meds just as long. I need to motivate myself to go back again.

[bldsucker]

I'm tired of living in this black whole of gloom, my stomach is my worst enemy, i'm all booked on depression and self loathing. but I must say, this video is pretty gutsy and honest. this life in the end is a fucking bitch and god doesn't know the pain!!!

[yallosh]

i watched the enitre video and i really understand what your saying and it is a big relief to know that another person has very simalar thoughts and emotions ..and i thank you for sharing your thoughts on this video take care man

[darkangel284]

Why does youtube keep cutting out videos before they're over?! Anyway, first I must say, kudos for actually having the courage to put up videos of yourself, that takes guts. I have SAD as well, and just the thought of broadcasting myself freaks me out. Take care, and thanks for sharing. It makes us more "silent sufferers" feel less alone.

[KinkyFinkel]

I COMPLETELY understand. My social anxiety started in the 6th grade (I'm 16 now) and It was hell. I even got hives one day and threw up in home room because of the intense anxiety. People were really looking at me then! I just wish I would have told my parents about it in 6th grade so that they could get me some medication or something because its been a downward spiral since then...especially working the front desk at a hotel. Anyways, I hope you find some way to overcome it

[Gentleman779]

Am really tired of Social Phobia, its like you are living in HELL!!! Am tired thinking about it. It Destroy my relations and all my life... and i dont know what to do ?!! can someone help... an Tired!!!

I had all these kinds of panic attacks many times in crowded places in parties in all social situation... ITS HELL!!!

[itsonlymejosh]

Yes it is. It's like a curse! I know how you feel.

[sickoflifetoday]

hey josh, I also have social anxiety, and really liked your video. I'm also like you, I couldnt leave the house and worked at a grocery store too.

[itsonlymejosh]

Well, I don't feel so alone now that I know there are other people out there like me. Thanks for the comment :o)

[bw90210]

Also, you'd be surprised how many people have social anxiety. Football player Ricky Williams, Entertainer Donny Osmond(stopped performing 5 years), Singer Barbara Streisand(stopped performing 10 years), Actress Kim Bassinger(stops performing off and on due to her social anxiety), and the list is endless. Believe it or not, daily exercise helps decrease social anxiety by normalizing chemicals in the body that reduce anxiety.

[bw90210]

Social phobia aka Social Anxiety can effect making phone calls, writing your name in public, using public washrooms, doing anything where you can be seen or heard. You seem like a very likeable person. Unfortunately, the only way to decrease social anxiety is to force yourself into more social situations. Social phobia is like any other phobia. The more you avoid what you fear the stronger the fear becomes. I'm wishing you the best.

[peaceluvunity]

You took the words out of my mouth. It's comforting to know that someone shares my exact feelings. You have an awesome personality & you're brave to make this video. I wish you well in you struggle :)

[linksysrouted]

Hi again Josh. I just wanted to add a few more comments.  First, social anxiety is indeed treatable (I'm living proof, as are thousands of others). Never, ever give up and never tell yourself that "you'll be like this for the rest of your life". You won't, Josh.

[linksysrouted]

and I see the rest of my comments didn't go through :(  Youtube?! POOTUBE!!

[linksysrouted]

Listen to and follow that program you received. The coping skills and cognitive behavioral approach works. If you want to get better, Josh, you will. Right now you lack the coping skills and are overwhelmed by automatic negative thoughts. Your future is not the way you are now, Josh.

[itsonlymejosh]

I started listening to the program last night. So far it sounds really awesome. Especially since I can relate to everything they were saying in the beginning about SAD.

[2oobwatcher]

Josh....your sharing something thats so painful for you is powerful testimony that seems to have touched a lot of others with the same problem. Thank you for stepping outside your comfort zone and sharing this. Blessings.

Ann

[DamianM06]

You're like me. social anxiety is a complex thing just work on your self esteem and practice talking to people.

[itsonlymejosh]

Thanks :o) I'm better than I used to be I guess. Used to be that I wouldn't ever leave the house. So I guess I could say I've gone a long way since then.

[HaleyBBH]

Hi Josh. I'm sure there are lots of people out there that understand exactly what your saying. I've struggled with social anxiety since I was 8 or 9. It's interesting hearing you talk about what you go through, because most sounded very familiar. Familiar because I've felt & often still feel the same way. I think your getting online & talking about it really good therapy. In fact, I think I may try to muster of enough guts to join in & post my own video blog. Thanks for sharing. =)

[itsonlymejosh]

It's good that people can relate to what I'm saying. And it's also comforting to know that I'm not the only one who suffers from this. It took me a lot of courage to start posting videos. I know you can do it! :o) take care!

[GirlLina]

Hey Josh! Video is great! It makes perfect sense!!! Thank you for this one! I know it will help me understand better my fiance's social anxiety.Greetings! Lina

[itsonlymejosh]

Thank YOU for inspiring me to make this video! I'll be replying to your letter soon. I'm getting behind on my reponses lately.. take care :o)

[Jessyca423]

Thankyou Josh for your honesty. I know someone very close to me who has suffered the same social anxiety, That person too thought that alcohol helped because it did but now excepts that what will be will be and accept that that is how you are and people are just going to accept it. Take care my friend :) :)

[itsonlymejosh]

Thanks Jessyca. I'll be emailing you soon. I'm afraid I've fallen far behind on correspondence. Until then...take care!

[scrumsrus]

Great video Josh that took alot of Bravery my friend. Anxiety is an irrational problem and by definition that makes it difficult to rationalise so that you can explain it to others. I have had some problems with anxiety myself, but nothing to the extent you discribe.

Take care

Health & Happiness

Regards

Andy

[itsonlymejosh]

Thank you Andy. Appreciate the comment :o) take care!

[linksysrouted]

Josh, I'm going to repost a message I've left for you before:

A really great self-help series for social anxiety that I found is called "Overcoming Social Anxiety: Step by Step". It's helped me a lot and I was really, really bad. Unfortunately, the program isn't cheap ($379 for the CD series! Yikes). However, um.. if you look around a few peer-to-peer networks.. like.. eMule.. you might be able to find um.. a lot cheaper. There are others out there, but this one I found the most helpful.

[itsonlymejosh]

Oh yeah, I will definitely check that out. Thanks for letting me know about it! take care