My Boyfriend Has Social Anxiety Disorder

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-28-2005
My Boyfriend Has Social Anxiety Disorder
3
Fri, 07-29-2005 - 4:19pm
My boyfriend of 8 months has a very very hard time going out into places that are loud or crowded. Even getting him to spend a couple hours at the county fair with me was difficult. I feel terrible whenever we go out with other people because he is so nervous and he is constantly going to the bathroom or outside to try and keep hinself calm. Usually, we end up staying home and inviting friends over for games and supper, but it gets very repetitive. He is in therapy, but because he was brought up Jehovah's Witness, he is very reluctant to go on any sort of medication to treat the disorder. Does anyone have any ideas about good places to go out that will put him at ease or ways to help him? Thank you!
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Fri, 07-29-2005 - 7:21pm

Hi & welcome to our community. This must be a very difficult situation. I think your bf is doing the right thing by seeking therapy. His decision not to take meds is a personal one & that is something noone but he can change. Your best bet is to support him as best you can & learn to live with his limitations. As long as he is happy staying in with friends & enjoying meals & games, then how can you change him? That is something he'll have to do himself. I had a driving phobia & never got behind the wheel for 3 years. When I finally was sick of the situation & ready to face my fear, I overcame it. Therapy & meds can help us. We have to help ourselves.


You can find alot of kind & supportive folks here that will share their personal experiences. Post anytime & drop into chat.


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iVillage Member
Registered: 07-28-2005
Fri, 07-29-2005 - 10:08pm
Thanks for the words of wisdom and the extension of your support. I'm glad that I was kind of on the right track with things, and I'm glad to have some help with this!
iVillage Member
Registered: 04-18-2003
Fri, 07-29-2005 - 10:14pm

I hzve a very difficult time in social situations. This is new to me and had never been a problem before, so it is affecting the people around me. I do push myself to do things, so my 4 y.o. son doesn't miss out on having me there, but it is very hard. Sometimes I need meds to get in the car (I don't drive at this time), other times I ask to be brought back home & just can't do it. I don't think there is an "easy" place for me to be, I try not to plan so I don't think about it alot and get all freaked out. I do better spur of the moment. Your boyfriend might never become comfortable in social situations, maybe he just prefers not to at this time. When he does want to go somewhere, support him 100% and go, even if you don't want to, I know for me it gets easier each time!

Sheri Ann

Sheri Ann