Social Phobia
Social phobia is a real thing. I've got it. It took me years to feel comfortable enough to speak to strangers on the phone. I still remember clearly, when I was in 7th grade, and a girl named Penny called me up and invited me to a party that Friday. I don't remember anything else....just the horror that washed over me. A party? With people? W-w-why? Even years later, as an adult, I was mortified to attend a party where half the people I didn't recognize. I spent most of the evening hiding behind people I knew. I am not a psychiatrist--not even an armchair psychologist--and have no suggestion for curing anyone of the condition. It may have no cure. I don't know. I just know I have it. I don't know anyone else who has it because those who do, don't go out much. They exist, thou…