Predacon said:
That is interesting, i do have a very avoident personality and like to keep away from things that make me uncomfortable, but I've always it considered part of my social phobia.
Well, I'm in no way 'diagnosing' you with anything - I'm not qualified. Though it sounds from what you've said that you have clear-cut Social Phobia (SP).
SP causes a lot of avoidance in most sufferers, often with periods of Agoraphobia-like symptoms (when you cant go outside) & it can co-exist with real Agoraphobia too. I feel real sorry for any such people.
Just a point about so-called social anxiety (SA) as a 'label', not important just my brain working o/time. :? I consider all of us here to suffer a degree of SA because the words/phrase 'social anxiety' is, in my opinion, the main (or one of the main) actual FEELINGS that is experienced in every level of this particular psychiatric illness (please dont get hung up on the phrase 'psychiatric illness' - thats just how I see it. It aint important, pitty some have to try to 'disect' my words - kevj).
Sorry bout that Predacon mate! Where was I? Yeah, SA is more of an 'end-product', whether you are normally a bit shy, have chronic SP or severe APD with Schizoid features. SA is that moment when it 'happens'.
You get 'socially anxious'. I dont see it as a diagnosis as such, though explaining how you feel with "I have really bad social anxiety at times" is acceptable. But the way 'I' see it is people dont 'HAVE' SA - SA is what you FEEL if you 'HAVE' SP, moderate/severe Shyness, or even 'Stage Frieght'.
I guess I'm saying this 'cause it might help you understand your own issues better, Predacon.
Could it be that what you have is SP (of whatever severity - I know it varies greatly day-to-day) and that your SP makes you avoid certain things, maybe even most things?
Ask anyone with true Avoidant Personality Disorder (APD) and they'll tell you it's far more complex than just avoidance. The 'label' certainly dont tell the whole story, just like the front cover of a magazine cant tell you 'everything' inside. I know thats not the best example but you get my meaning.
You really want to know what you 'have' Predacon? Find a good competent pdoc.
And you can always talk to me via email or messenger. As can anyone infact - you're all invited! Just email me first!