carljnewton:

I spent a long time last night going through numerous tumblr pages, based primarily on social anxiety. It was an eye opening experience. There were so many people, both young and old, having their lives torn apart by this social phobia. Seeing talk of struggles during every day life, especially in college and university, reminded me of my own issues. Talk of despair, hopelessness, suicide, and fear of getting help reminded me of how destructive this could really be. To all of those suffering from this issue, I have this to say:

Don’t give up.

There is hope, for everyone. It may seem like you’re trapped now, and that there’s no way you can escape your predicament, but don’t believe that voice for a second. I know it’s hard to change, and I know it can seem like an impossibility to just gather up the courage to talk to somebody, but I assure you, it’s not impossible - not at all.

Sometimes all it takes is the right person or friend to help you out or at least give you the start you need. Sometimes we need to seek help in the form of a professional. The important thing is that when you finally do find something that can help you, that you approach it with optimism. It’s not an easy process at all, and pessimism will only make it harder.

Fight your preconceived notions about yourself and the people you avoid. That voice that tells you people are judging you, those thoughts that tell you that people want nothing to do with you, those irrational leaps that you make that you that people are only going to see your flaws - none of it is justified. It’s easier said than done, but keep on challenging those thoughts. For the most part, people will treat you with the respect you deserve so much. I know how incredibly difficult this is, but if you need to be sure of something, be sure of this: somebody cares, and you’re not alone.

If you need to talk, feel free to contact me using the ask function of this tumblr - we can set up a more appropriate means of communication through that, and I assure you, I will answer you privately. We could talk about anything you want - we don’t need to talk about social anxiety. Sometimes, just having someone to talk to can go a long way.

Never give up on yourself. You may not always believe it, but you’re an important person, and you can give so much to this world. Fight as hard as you possibly can, then fight some more. And most importantly, love yourself. You’re worth it.