I have a very hard time making friends or hanging out with new people

Hi. It’s Jenny at AnxietyBoss.com. Our question today is Jacquelyn in Frisco, Texas. I have a very hard time making friends or hanging out with new people. I start sweating, start thinking bad, and just freak out, and from there on, I just go on with my daily errands, giving up on making new friends or hanging out with new people. How can I get rid of this fear?

Fear of meeting new people and other social situations can result in loneliness, isolation and disconnection from others. When anxiety becomes so severe that it prevents someone from functioning in the manner they prefer, for example, making new friends and socializing, it may be time to see someone professional.

A professional counselor or psychotherapist can evaluate you and make a proper diagnosis.