Too scared to seek out help

I haven't been diagnosed with AvPD, but I'd really like to see a professional about it because I have so many of the AvPD traits. However I'm too scared to seek out help. I've thought about it many times, but I always just ended up pushing the thought away because I figured I would be fine on my own. However lately life has been beating me and I don't feel like I can cope with all my issues on my own anymore. But I'm scared to talk to my doctor because I'm afraid she won't take me seriously or won't understand me. And I'm afraid I won't be able to explain myself properly, and what if she starts asking difficult questions, and what if I start crying? I never open up to people, so how would I be able to open up to someone I barely know?

I have no idea what to do. I really want help, but I don't feel like I will be able to talk to anyone about it. If you have any advices or any stories that would be appreciated.

A GP should have at least a rough understanding of what AvPD is, although they can't diagnose it.

You could just reherse what you've said in your post there as a speach and say that to your doctor. It can be difficult when you try to talk about your actual issues though, as opposed to just saying that you've got these traits. My own first atempts to talk about it and get help did not go well. I talked a bit about my fear of rejection and desire to get a girlfriend and I just ended up feeling like a pervert because when you look at it like that it is a sexual problem.

Doctors are used to people crying. Don't be afraid of it.

It might be good to write what you want to say and what you want to ask before going. Just some notes. You may take it with you and read it if you want.

I always do that when going to the doctor. I talk, then read my notes to see if i didn't forget anything.

In the past, i always tried to look strong and hide emotions. But why? You not robot. They are not working for robots. If she chose to be doctor, she should be able to watch someone showing emotions.

Hi,

I admire your guts. It is hard for anyone to get over the hump to see a psychiatrist and/or psychologist, even those without AvPD. I don't have a PD and it was hard for me. I only went when I was at the point where I didn't want to burden anyone of my friends or family members with my problems. If I wasn't going to help myself, I felt that I could I ask them to help me anymore.

I also always write down a list of the points I want to cover with any medical doctor. I actually found it easier to tell a stranger things than a friend because what I say cannot hurt a therapist like it can a friend. I also don't worry that I am causing them distress by letting them know what a bad place I am in, and unlike a friend or family member, I don't have to see them again if I don't want. I can just switch therapists.

If you are going first to a GP for a recommendation to a psychiatrist and/or psychologist, I would only lay out the bare bones of your issues, saying, for example, that you are experiencing anxiety that is interfering with your work and social life and want to see a therapist. In my experience, doctors will quickly refer you to a specialist when the issue is outside their purview no matter the issue, probably (I am guessing) because they do not want to provide you with incorrect information. It can seem cold so I thought should forewarn you in case this is your experience.

Good luck!