Stress Center Peer Support

I constantly obsess about what others think of me, wondering if they know I'm anxious, or if they think I'm acting weird. I'm always afraid I'll say or do something weird and they'll think I'm nuts. I worry that my husband knows I'm anxious and acting different, I worry that my kids know, even though they are only 9 and 6. We went to the local fair with my parents and my sister last night and all I did was obsess about what they were thinking about me. Was I acting weird? Did I say anything weird? Did they think something was wrong with me? Was I acting like my normal self? Please tell me someone can relate to these obsessive thoughts!

when we are anxious, we are so tuned into ourselves and so aware.... we think everyone is looking at us or judging us when in reality, they're thinking their own stuff or having fun and we're the last thing on their minds. On top of that, why should we care what others think ? seriously!! why should we??? Can we change it? no. You're not alone, we all have dealt/deal with this

Thanks Tommyboy, You are definately right, and I have been able to realize these things when I'm not anxious but when I get in these obsessive times I feel like there in a big red flashing sign on my forehead that says ANXIOUS!lol Actually I thought I was handling it fine and then my sister asked me if something was wrong and that freaked me out because I thought OMG! They can tell! Now I'm ten times worse today than I was yesterday.

i ennvey people who can just enjoy themselve. me i want to look like i am so noone knows. but its a goal.

Hi mtdeffend,

This is such a commom trend with most or all of us with depression, anxiety, and is at least for me ( won't speak for others ) is due to my lack os self esteem, wanting to please everyone all the time, be liked by everyone, seem in control of myself always, seem strong, and the list goes on. My family knows I suffer from depression and anxiety but others don't. I am in a new community quite a ways from where I used to live and really don't know anyone here so it's why nobody else knows. I have great support from my family and they are so happy and proud of me for all I have accomplished in the past 3 months. It's something I feel we need at times especially in the beginning...support from loved ones and or friends. it sounds as though you are keeping this to yourself and away from even family. If so is it because you feel embarrased to tell them? Just wondering. I know many are as it's part of the feelings many of us have in common. You are not alone and I think we can relate to most of the thoughts and feelings each person posts about. The program has already helped me in just 4 sessions. I'm using the teachings every day and will beat this with dedication and hard work. You can too.
Good Luck on your journey to feeling better.

Hi there, thanks for your response! Actually most of my family does know about my anxiety, and they are very supportive, expecially my SIL she struggles with anxiety and depression too. I guess alot of the reason I try to hide it is pride. I see my anxiety as a character flaw, or a weakness. Funny thing is, I don't look at my SIL that way when she's anxious or depressed! Or anyone else struggling with anxiety or depression for that matter. I'm afraid my husband will look at me differently if he knows. Same thing with my family. I just want them to see me as strong and together. Not good, I know. I don't know how I got back into that neg. thinking pattern again, I can't wait to start the program, it's been so long, it'll all seem new to me!

Originally posted by mtdeffend:
Hi there, thanks for your response! Actually most of my family does know about my anxiety, and they are very supportive, expecially my SIL she struggles with anxiety and depression too. I guess alot of the reason I try to hide it is pride. I see my anxiety as a character flaw, or a weakness. Funny thing is, I don't look at my SIL that way when she's anxious or depressed! Or anyone else struggling with anxiety or depression for that matter. I'm afraid my husband will look at me differently if he knows. Same thing with my family. I just want them to see me as strong and together. Not good, I know. I don't know how I got back into that neg. thinking pattern again, I can't wait to start the program, it's been so long, it'll all seem new to me!

Hey Again, I for some reason thought you were trying to keep it from family...SORRY!!

Of course you don't see or feel that way about others because we all have so much compassion and want to be helpfull and kind and loving to everyone....but ourselves. That's how I am also but am learning to think about myself...finally!

Good Luck, your not alone here...ever!!