If you're currently dealing with or have ever dealt with anxiety then you know how difficult everyday actions that seem normal to most people can be. Here are just a few of the things that I've struggled doing because of my anxiety and few ways for others to help.
1. Ordering food.
I've gotten really good about this in the last couple years and most days it doesn't faze me anymore, but ordering food can be really hard, especially when I'm alone. Never, ever force someone to order. We're not just being lazy; talking to a stranger can seem very scary at times.
2. Looking someone in the eye.
This makes me really nervous. I constantly get jokes from customers about my lack of eye contact. Pointing it out just makes me more uncomfortable. It's best just to respect it and not say anything.
3. Crowded rooms.
Anyone who has ever seen me at a college party has seen me sitting on a couch in the corner of a room. I'm not antisocial, but a lot of people in a tiny space is just not my thing. It's best to approach the person alone, not with a huge group of people, and say hi. It makes me feel less alone, but doesn't make me feel attacked.
4. Attention being drawn.
There are very few things that make me cringe more than someone I'm with doing something that makes everyone look at us. I don't like people looking at me at all, let alone judgmentally. Be yourself, but don't go out of your way to "embarrass" someone because most times it goes a little beyond embarrassment.
5. Getting someone's attention.
I will quietly say someone's name five times and then give up because I am too scared to actually project enough for them to hear me. There aren't too many ways to help with this one because most times the other person doesn't even realize that I'm trying to talk to them.
6. Getting left On Seen.
When someone sees my message but doesn't reply I immediately jump to the conclusion that I am annoying and will probably not ever message them again. It seems dramatic when you look back, but at the time there seems to be no other explanation. I'm not going to tell you to never ignore someone because that is basically impossible. Life is too busy for that, but messaging them back later explaining that you were busy is a good way to make sure no feelings are hurt.
I'm lucky enough to have people who recognize my anxiety and help me through it. Surrounding yourself with the right people is always a good way to make your life positive.
