How do i calm my nerves and recover from embarrassment after i basically had an anxiety attack at a social event in front of a few hundred people? I hate myself so much for being like this. -ai
Hi, love.
Please know that you have no reason to feel embarrassed, the people that were there have most likely forgotten about it or didn’t even realise you were having an anxiety attack. With anxiety, we tend to think of the worst case scenario and our minds feed on all of the negative thoughts more than the positives and truths.
I want you to remind yourself that, the people that were there at the same time as you when it happened, you’re probably never going to see again. All of the bad thoughts that may be creeping into your mind is what some people call ‘magical thinking’, it’s when we tell ourselves negative, untrue thoughts, and because we keep telling ourselves them, they becomes our truth. So when people tell you the real truths, we disagree and go back to thinking the negatives. (I hope that makes sense).
Have you ever considered speaking with a professional about your anxiety? They can help you in so many amazing ways, I really encourage you to seek that support if you haven’t already. Please never feel afraid of speaking up about these things, there are so many people around you that are willing to help! Go >here< for a list of international helplines and online chats if you wish to speak with a professional ASAP, or even keep it bookmarked if you need use them in the future.
Here’s a list of things to do to calm yourself:
Distract yourself with doing things you love (also go >here< for a list of all purpose distractions),
Write down all of the things you’re worried about and rip the piece of paper up OR scribble all over the page to let your frustration out,
Talk to the people around you, reaching out for support and guidance is nothing to be ashamed off, it’s actually extremely brave and helpful,
Check out >these< websites you can chill out on,
Also, check out >this< page of resources, you’ll see a tab about Anxiety and there’s some links there that are really helpful!
Please do reach out to the people around you, you’re not alone and please know that you have no reason to feel embarrassed! What happened is in the past and you should focus on the present and moving forward!
- Jade