I am confused :/

Since I am rather introverted, I always feel more comfortable getting the other person or persons to do the talking.  The best way to do that is to ask questions of interest.  Talk about things in their life and then try to remember what they said.  That way, when you see them again, you can remember something about them and start your conversation there.   It's sort of like picking up where you left off.

You have friends and you have a boyfriend; so you must be doing something right!  Try to focus on those positive things instead of worrying so much about how you come across. 

Hello Wisp,

I am sorry you are having this problem but it is very common so don't feel alone.  You are in good company.

It's normal to feel nervous and awkward in some social situations. For some people, though, common, everyday social situations cause extreme anxiety, fear and self-consciousness.

Social anxiety disorder typically persists for life, often waxing and waning. But don't lose hope. Treatment can help you control symptoms and become more confident and relaxed in social situations.

The two most effective types of treatment are medications and a form of psychotherapy called cognitive behavior therapy. For the greatest effectiveness, they're often used in combination.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts cause our feelings and behaviors, not external things, like people, situations, and events. The benefit of this fact is that we can change the way we think to  feel / act better even if the situation does not change.

There is a free online CBT that many of the members have used, the MoodGYM  :

http://moodgym.anu.edu.au/welcome

I would give this course a try but please remember it is hard work and you must go at your own pace.

Coping with social anxiety disorder can be challenging. Having social anxiety disorder can make it difficult for you to go to work or school, to interact with other people, or even to visit the doctor. But maintaining connections and building relationships are key ways to help cope with any mental disorder.  ^{( Reference/Mayo)}

I wish you peace and happiness,

Kitt

Yogi,

Great input and I know I have a tendency to want to hide out at times out of fear that I just won't be able to control the situation.  Try not to get cought up in the "What if's"

Don't anticipated the worse but instead just go and be who you are, a wonderful and worthy person.

Take care all,

Kitt