Hi, I just discovered this board and I really just need to talk. Most people worry and have insecurity, but mine seem to be worse. For example, I work in a small office and when I hear the people on the other side of the wall whispering, I think they are talking about me and pretty much drop everything and try to pick up on what they are saying. Or when my boss has some of my co-workers in her office and she shuts the door, I think she's talking about me. Or when I'm at the mall or restaurant, or anywhere else for that matter, and I hear people laughing behind me, of course I think its about me. I also find myself worrying about bad things happening to me and second guessing descisions, big or small. This insecurity is starting to take over my work and home life. Am I overreacting to this or is this something that could get worse? I don't really know how to control this. Any input would be appreicated. Thanks.

Hi Friend

Sorry that you are having a bad time right now. I am no doctor but it sounds to me like you might have some anxiety. It must be really hard for you to feel like that all the time.

Have you thought about going to your doctor and telling him your story. He may have a solution for you or may be able to refer you to a counsellor or something. Why feel lousy if you don't have to. You deserve to be well.

Best of luck to you.
heather

I've often felt that way too. I am so paranoid that people will think I'm stupid or weird that I avoid social situations. If I go shopping and I can't find something, I WILL NOT ask for help. I will either look for it forever and find it or leave empty handed (even if I really need it). I always thought it was because I worked retail, but I'm beginning to think I have that social anxiety disorder as well as depression.

That is SO me! Everything you guys/girls wrote! But if I knew what to do about it, I wouldn't still be suffering myself - so I can't be of much help to you. But I wanted you to know you're not alone.

I think the fact that I was bullied in high school has a lot to do with the way I've been feeling ever since. The kids would always pick on me for absolutely no reason - so of course I now freak out when I hear somebody laughing.

If anyone has any suggestions on how to be less paranoid, I'd love to hear them too! CC

Thanks to all for responding, it helps to know that I'm not alone in this and there are people that can relate. This is actually the first time I've said anything to anyone about how I'm feeling..I guess I'm afraid to tell my family and friends because I think they won't think much of it..that I'm making a big deal out of nothing. I know I should see my doctor, but is there anything he could do for me? Sorry about my ranting. Thanks again for reading and responding and best of luck to all.