On handling your anxiety in public

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The other night I was at a social event, a couple of my close friends' local theatre group was putting on a small play. I didn't expect it to be triggering, but hey, that's just how it goes sometimes, isn't it? When hit with anxiety in public, I try to remind myself of the following coping mechanisms:

  • Don't forget your meds
Seems pretty simple and self-explanatory enough, but since I try to limit my benzo intake, I often forget I even have them. Keep a couple emergency pills on you, and don't be afraid to take them if necessary.
  • Try not to draw attention to yourself
I've tried it all sorts of ways: announcing it to the group, telling a close friend, keeping it to myself. If the person you're with is part of your support system, someone you know understands what it means when you tell them your anxiety is acting up, great, tell them, let them help you. If not, I've found that telling people about it is (a) just going to make other people uncomfortable and/or feel obligated to try to help you, which as we all know, despite well meaning intentions, doesn't always work, and (b) the aforementioned will just make you more uncomfortable. It's a lose-lose.
  • Try not to feel guilty
Remember it's not your fault, remember you're not choosing for this to happen; if anything, you would give your left foot to choose for this not to happen. It's easy to let those guilty thoughts take over, especially when you're in public and you feel like everything is just ten times worse. Find a quiet spot, focus on your breath, be kind to yourself.
  • It's okay to leave
No matter where you are, I mean unless you're in the middle of open heart surgery, it's totally fine to peace out. Excuse yourself to the host (if they're your friend, they'll understand), and don't feel badly about leaving. Your peace of mind is more important. If you stay too long past your limit, it's no fun for anyone, especially and most importantly you.

Please share your own tips and tricks on coping with your anxiety in public in the comments!

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