Kicked off a Survival Course

[Sparklebug]

GP first,but drugs I would be wary of (short term ok but not long term) as they mask emotions and do not solve long term problems IMO. Ask your GP about ART THERAPY. Wonderful thing, one to one at first then in a very small, well thought out like minded group towards the end......

I know about these things..........been there............

[wizzo]

Amoeba, like you, I was never very confident around other people, especially groups. I'm not sure how, but I managed to grab the bull by the horns about ten years ago, when I was in a position that was just unavoidable. To cut a long story short, I've never looked back, Now I actually relish being in a group situation and I always put myself forward for virtually anything. I think I just realised that almost EVERYONE feels exactly the same way. It's just that some people are better than other at hiding it. You've made the biggest step by admitting you have an issue and I wish you all the luck in the world in overcoming this problem. I'm also unsure what your sex and age have to do with it though? Wizzo

[Brocakat]

Amoeba, my suggestion it that you 'buddy-up' with only 2 or 3 / 4 at max. number, and form a decent-length-type relationship with Common Interests , for at least a couple of years , which would hopefully include Field/Camping Trips together.
This, I hope, would 'bond' you all together, as some kind of trusting 'unit'/'team'.

Don't worry about it all being single-sex or even 50:50 - the more important thing in relation to that is that the relationships stay platonic - or at-the-very,very least - platonic for those first couple of years.
Start off wth those 'Ground Rules' from the very start, so that there is no ambiguity/room for misunderstandings.
And stay away from Drugs - they are useful for only an initial very,very Short Term (of an overall---LongTerm) Strategy, usually a strategy following Severe - and I mean severe - Trauma.


And bloomin' VERY WELL DONE for having the GUTS to bare-all on here.

[Thaddeus]

Originally Posted by BillyPilgrim

I spent quite a lot of my childhood alone (although you couldn't describe it as being sheltered) and it has had an effect later on in life. For example, I shy away from social gatherings which in the past I would really look forward to attending. My friends and family just think I'm a grumpy git!

I know exactly what you mean, I don't tend to shy away from events per se, but usually make my excuses or just slip away without being noticed because I don't really enjoy them as much these days and I definately don't like crowded places or loud noises.

I think it's because I've spent most of my life in the Army and although that may mean to alot of people seeing a wall of green or living in communial accomodation, it also makes you appreciate solitude and the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. I'm more than happy with my own company and sometimes I go out of my way not to be 'involved' in the world about me and just disappear with my dogs, sometimes even avoid other walkers so I can be on my own. It may be because of past 'experiences' or just searching for one of those moments that rarely come along

Amoeba, I fully understand, slow integration is usually the best way, try taking up a hobby that can give you and others a common shared interest or something active like a running club - they go past my house all of the time and seem to be really enjoying themselves.