My anxiety is killing me, why can't I date or go out?!

My anxiety is killing me, why can't I date or go out?

I know it is social anxiety disorder. It makes me a bit paranoid. I worry day and night about what people think of me and the mistakes I have made or will make. I am always seeking approval. My life isn't my own. If someone says the wrong thing, my anxiety goes off the scale. It has kept me awake at night. It is driving me crazy. I have had panic attacks.

Not surprisingly when I get apparent attention from the opposite sex, I am not sure what I should think. Just this week, two girls smiled and made eye contact at the theatre and a woman smiled at me and made eye contact at the grocery store. If I were "normal or sane," I would think they were showing interest in me. Consequently, I am afraid to approach them and find out. What if they say no or worse say yes?

My ability to cope is wearing down. My darkness is growing worse. A life like this isn't worth living.

Dude, I've suffered from the social anxiety for the past 5 years (since 2002) and the depression that eventually comes with it. I've finally had to courage to get help (i'm currently seeing a psychiatrist and psychologist to see which one i want to get help from).

I know what you mean regarding the eye contact. I had a girl smile at me today on my way to class but I got scared and didn't have the courage to smile back (which probably seemed rude on my part, but it's the social anxiety that prevents me from smiling).

I became depressed after realizing all my missed opportunities (5 years of my life gone) and my isolation.

Go get help. See a psychiatrist or psychologist. The first step is to talk about it in a confidential and safe environment. Which you will do by seeing one of them. You can get meds (BUT remember this isn't necessary - it's depends on each person). But talking about it with someone compassionate is a must. Do it. Force yourself to do it.