parties
My anxiety was at its most severe in high school, so typical social situations like parties were blank question marks in my mind. By college I had started therapy and that helped a lot with socializing. But I soon found out that parties were mostly people smushed like sardines in smoky basements or littered backyards, glassy eyed and hormones raging. Weird reward for therapy, but I did learn flip cup skills.
In the real world, parties get moderately saner, and you also see something called dinner parties, which are usually on the first floor of a house and the humans are spaced out normally.
I went to a real world party recently, and it was a solid time. My partner and I decided to wear weird clothes that we bought for each other at thrift stores that day. I had the choice of wearing an oversized hot pink and purple polo or what I called a boomer bomber jacket, which was a sweater shaped as a bomber jacket with purple and yellow flowers. I went with the first choice because I have anxiety and I didn’t need any more. When we got there I regretted my decision and shredded the outfit off as soon as I explained our outfits. Here’s what calmed the rest of my anxiety:
Mindset:
You’re there for some type of celebratory reason. Could be a formal reason like a going away party, or if it’s just a weekend party, you’re still celebrating the week you got through. Think of it as a celebration you get to have.
Mouth piece:
Equip yourself with go-to questions like these — “How do you know [host]?” and “Have you tried the [specific food/specific drink set-up]”
Follow your feet:
If you can find someone you know at the party, start there and join their conversation. If you’re there all alone, start at the spaces likely to have the most people — usually the food/drink section or the tv (if there’s a game or program on).
I am not a mental health professional — each post is meant to provide 3 tips that have helped me through everyday situations with anxiety. Please seek professional help if you need it.