Am new

[Low]

For the first which is today, I realize what my problem is. I am shy with SA. I used to get angry when people said I was quiet. Because to me I wasn't. I thought I was a wonderful person once they got to know me. I have always been a quiet person and have hated it but have overcomed many barriers that had been holding me back. For instance, I used to have problems meeting people and asking questions. After many years of struggle, I feel I have conquered this, though sometimes I still get shy about it. For the last 6 years I have been suffering from depression and feeling very lonely. I have been taking anti-depressants in the past but no longer do. I have wondered when all this sadness began because I have been fine before (or so I thought) I realized I have problems maintaining friendships, and I can be somewhat aloof with people and as a result people think I am stuck up. Of course I want to have close friendships but seem incapable of maintaining them. I find my own company less of a challenge. So today for the first time at 37 years of age, I realize my depression stems from shyness and the inability to make connections with people.
I can emphatize with many who wrote on the forum and can certainly relate especially about social situations. I definitely feel like there is some invisible barrier that stops me from reaching my potential. Believe me it's really good to know finally what the root of my problem is.
This is really a good venue.

[CaryGrant]

Welcome, low. When I read your post, it could equally well have been about me, plus a few years.

I, too, struggle to create friendships. I would like a g/f, too, but actually my priority is to create some friends. Letting people in is tough. I get so eager to please at times that it turns people off, I think. And then, at other times, most times, I never drop my barriers enough to give someone a chance.

Any, welcome again and I hope to follow your progress.

[shyboy]

Low said:

For the first which is today, I realize what my problem is. I am shy with SA. I used to get angry when people said I was quiet. Because to me I wasn't. I thought I was a wonderful person once they got to know me. I have always been a quiet person and have hated it but have overcomed many barriers that had been holding me back. For instance, I used to have problems meeting people and asking questions. After many years of struggle, I feel I have conquered this, though sometimes I still get shy about it. For the last 6 years I have been suffering from depression and feeling very lonely. I have been taking anti-depressants in the past but no longer do. I have wondered when all this sadness began because I have been fine before (or so I thought) I realized I have problems maintaining friendships, and I can be somewhat aloof with people and as a result people think I am stuck up. Of course I want to have close friendships but seem incapable of maintaining them. I find my own company less of a challenge. So today for the first time at 37 years of age, I realize my depression stems from shyness and the inability to make connections with people.
I can emphatize with many who wrote on the forum and can certainly relate especially about social situations. I definitely feel like there is some invisible barrier that stops me from reaching my potential. Believe me it's really good to know finally what the root of my problem is.
This is really a good venue.

this post could have been written by me as it sums up perfectly the same feelings & experiences i have suffered, and the same realisations
this is my first post & was a bit scary, but i feel better for making it!

[Low]

thanks shyboy and carygrant.
to carygrant, i often read your posts and you are quite encouraging. you seem to have conquered quite a few things. but i like to think that we are all a work in progress. when we've conquered on thing, it's time to work on another. ;D so back to the drawing board we go, and it continues.....................