I am much more candid on this forum than I would ever be with people I know. I suppose it is because of the anonymity of the internet. Typically, anonymity is not a "benefit" in social interactions; all things being equal you would prefer to talk with people you know, friends, family, etc., rather than with random strangers. But in the case of anxiety, anonymity seems to be a real benefit.
If I had heart disease or diabetes or a broken arm, I would have no problem discussing that with people I know. I could be open about it with friends, colleagues, etc. That would make it a less isolating experience. Of course, in some ways all illnesses are isolating -- because YOU are the one suffering from it, not the people you talk with. But anxiety seems to be particularly lonely and isolating, because it is hard (for me at least) to talk with anyone I know about it. But talking with you all -- from behind the veil of the internet -- is much easier. (And of course, to some extent you can relate, having been there yourself...)
I am not sure why I am writing this. I guess to say "thank you" and to get your views on this subject.