My issue has been bothering me for about 6-7 years. It all started when I became addicted to the computer. An old friend of mine taught me a lot about the computer so from there I became addicted and dedicated all my time to it. I had little friends and I was only social in school. On a family get together, I just didn't go and that's where it all started. I don't recall the reason but I do think it's because I felt that I had to impress them somehow. Here I am 7 years later and I haven't gone to one family event. I fear it. I fear what they think. I feel that now I've been gone so long that they don't even remember me, like I'm no longer apart of their family. I don't talk to my family much anymore either. I know I have Social Phobia. There are tons of social situations that I FEAR.Not only is it with my family but also with certain friends that I haven't seen for awhile. But this is one of the worse and I just want to be able to see my family and not worry what they think of me. Not only is it with my family but also with certain friends that I haven't seen for awhile.


If you have any questions please ask
Any input is appreciated!

You are not used to being around people anymore.

Set a certain time per day for yourself to sit behind the computer... that's what I do: I do not spend longer than 2 hours per day to answer on this forum or answer emails from friends who live abroad.

Because it is tempting to spend a lot of time behind that screen..
The Internet is a world in itself... there is so much information out there and we cannot read it all!

However... personal contact is key.
To every relationship in life.
Nothing beats a real get-together with family or friends.

Explain this to your family and friends the way you have said this to us on the Forum.
Bite the bullet and go...
Once you have seen them for the first time after so long it will only be easier.

If not.. then seek professional help.
But set a time per day for yourself...

People need to connect with other people, otherwise life gets too lonely.
Its not good to be isolated.

Good luck and let us know what happened ?

First you need to learn to love and accept yourself for who you are and you should not be afraid of what they will think of you. Have confidence in yourself and a positive attitude will help you over come negative thoughts.

When you come to a place of being capable of appreciating the simple and wonderful things, then you have taken the first step in being truly free of fear.

I am sure that your family loves you and they will understand and support you if you are willing to be honest and communicative with them. It's not impossible to rebuild your relationship with your family, but it will take some effort from your side.

Good luck.

Find one person in your family, or among your friend that you remember being comfortable with. Send them e-mail and tell them your problem. Ask them to accompany you on one small family event. Once you start communicating honestly with one person, this will help you open up to others.