Jess,

Dating is definitely tough, it has so many what if’s especially in the early stages. I have had anxiety since I was young, and having anxiety while dating is hard. I recently started a new relationship with a guy who understands I have anxiety and tries his best to make sure I am at ease. Before we started our relationship I was the same I was so worried I was not good enough, or if he took longer than usual to reply I immediately thought he hated me and didn’t want to talk to me any more. Even now, even as he reassures me my mind still overthinks everything and goes to the worst case scenario. For me I usually call my best friend and make sure I’m not overthinking it just because I can be blinded by my own anxieties. Just today I had a breakdown this morning because I feel like I’m not good enough for him, what if he leaves me in a few years, what if he cheats. I try not to let the what if’s get in the way, because of how he makes me feel when I’m with him.  Have you told him that you have GAD and Depression?  Has he given you any true indication that he wants to end things? Do you only feel like this when your alone, or do you have this anxiety while your with him too?

Hi Jess,

I too have severe anxiety and panic disorder. I am on Benzodiazepine now and Busphar, which has helped alot with social anxiety. I had my Dad tell me something wise when I told him I was anxious. He said, why not do it being anyway through the fear and anxiety, it will never hurt you. And he was right. Just do it anyway. Date. Try calling the person instead of texting. I find texting impersonal as a means of communication. It’s too distant, and words on a screen can be taken the wrong way, especially when you don’t really know that person. Besides, you want to date this person right? Not a pen-pal? Ask for their number. Get to know them..do it even with anxiety and fear. They may too, be fearful and anxious. You may even tell them, you are a little nervous, they may say “you know what? I am nervous too!”. ☺