When you have severe anxiety and you try to be sociable it is like trying to jump 100 feet into the air. It can't be done. Avoidance of friends and acquaintances is a symptom of anxiety. When I work with soldiers with PTSD they avoid socializing with friends. They have learned in combat that strangers are dangerous. Thus, they run the risk of running into strangers at their friend’s social event. It is painful for them but also their families. Spouses and children suffer due to their marked anxiety and social avoidance. Relationships often deteriorate and sometimes lead to separation or even divorce.

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