Stress Center Peer Support

Good morning all. I would like your advice, as fellow anxiety sufferers, about how to handle something. I am having a holiday get together this weekend at my house on behalf of a friend who is starting a new career doing home shows. I thought hard about not doing it, as having people over makes me feel very nervous, self conscious, shaky and sweaty. But, I have committed to it. I need help on how to manage myself so I don't look "crazy"!

HEY SWEETIE I THINK YOU WILL BE FINE BECAUSE YOU WILL BE AT YOUR OWN HOME YOUR SAFE PLACE. WHAT YOU CAN ALSO DO IS JUST TRY TO HAVE FUN. MAKE JOKES OR PUT ON SOME GOOD MUSIC. WHATEVER YOU DO I THINK YOU WILL BE FINE

GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS

Hi Elaine,

Remember the positive self talk. Let yourself know that you are worthy of respect and worthy of enjoying yourself. You deserve it. And if it gets too overwhelming just excuse yourself to the restroom for a few minutes and slow your breathing and get yourself together.

I recently revealed to a long time friend that I have panic attacks, because his wife struggles with them. He was shocked! I thought it was so obvious! But, it really isn't that obvious to people. After all, it's just thoughts inside your head. Keep yourself busy fussing over snacks and keeping things tidy if you get nervous, and nobody will be able to tell. Even better get into some nice conversations and you'll forget you're nervous before you know it.

I had to go do a singing audition today and I was so worried I'd mess up or look "crazy" but once I got there I just did it and it went fine. That part of your brain kicks in to make sure you get through if you just trust in it.

Thanks very much to you all. I will let you know how it goes...

I hope I am not too late on your party. Remember you know all the negative spots in your home (where the dirt did not get removed) not your company, and they will be focusing on your friends products so will be extremely busy. Go to the deli and get your menu, you will be able to relax easier up to the time of arrival if you do not over tax your anxiety with too much preperation.

Hi, I hope that my experience will help to calm you. I too found myself in the same circumstance in the past. What helped me: I had a few friends that new about my situation--they knew in advance if I had to leave the room and would cover for me. Also, I changed my FOCUS--really listened to what the hostess was saying and demonstrating. If I found myself doing the What If's, I told myself...focus...switch to the presentation. In this case it was candles...I focus on the smells, etc. It really worked and you know what? I really and truly enjoyed myself. It took getting through the first 20 minutes and then everything was OK. Good Luck to you!