social anxiety at the movies and lectures

When Im at the movies or a lecture with a friend I cant concentrate and enjoy it because my thoughts are racing as to how hes doing and what im suppossed to be doing vis a vis the rest of the people around me. I cant seem to experience something with someone else without racing thoughts and worries. I walk into the theatre and the anxiety hits me. I hesitate but know I have to go in and suffer through it. Anyone else? Tips insights?

Hey, Bill! Welcome to the forum. Maybe you've had a bad experience, like being bullied or put down in front of people, and that's why this is happening. You don't have to do anything you don't feel comfortable with.