Hi Barb. I can't say I have a social anxiety disorder, exactly, because I've never seen a therapist or anything. I know I have alot of fear that has kept me from a full social life.

It always feels like everything about me is being criticized by every passing person. I know this is egotistical, but I was picked on alot as a kid, which is a big part of this.

I have a hard time trusting that someone actually wants to spend time with me, even if I am invited, and it is horrifying and impossible for me to ask to join a group for lunch or invite myself to a party.

I've known my friend Amanda since middle school (kinda kindergarten, actually) and it took about 5 years for me to trust that my very presence wasn't an imposition, that she wasn't pretending to be my friend, out of pity.

So, its sort of social anxiety, magnified by low self-worth. I was a shy child, but my family's constant moving kinda messed me up for a long time. I've dealt with it bit by bit, forcing myself into situations that make me uncomfortable, and realizing that my few friends are genuine has been a great help.

Now I'm using bicycling as a self-therapy, too. I put on shorts, ride an orange bike, riding a bike at all draws people's attention and possibly judgment, I'm dressing differently at school, etc...