Work, school and social anxiety..

I was wondering about how people deal with working and going to school with social anxiety. What jobs do sufferers of social phobia generally have and what are good entry-level jobs?



I just got hired at my first job (I'm almost 18) at a drug store. I kind of tried to put on an act when I was in the interview, but I have an 8-hour shift on friday, just training. I'm basically going to be stocking and cashiering.

I'm worried about having a panic attack or getting really angry or frustrated, or just breaking down and crying within the first couple hours. (I'm bp II) I broke down several times a week during the school year, I'm such a mess.

ningyo,

From my experiences, cashier jobs are not good for people with social anxiety. However, if you stick with it, it will all become easier and easier as you become used to it. I have huge social anxiety at times and I prefer jobs where I can work on my own. I remember one day I got a job as a waitor but I quit after a few minutes on my first day because I had a panic attack.

When you say school, do you mean university / college? Like, do you have a degree?

Kevin

Oh, I forgot to mention that data-entry jobs are very good for people like us too.

thanks for the input--my brother said data-entry would be good as well. I'll look into that.

I tested out of high school and will be taking some community college courses..I'm just worried I'll have that constant feeling of being watched and judged and won't be able to concentrate..

What about independent study-type courses? Do you think they would work out well or just distance me further from people and make it worse?

Thanks!

Hi again ningyo,

I think that you should aim to join a course that involves working with a group of people. It may be difficult at the start, of course, but it will get easier. Who knows, there may be someone else there who is just like you too.

Kevin

Thanks a lot.

I got a cashier job, I start tomorrow. I'm being optimistic.

hmm, tell me how it goes will you? I think a cashier is better than other jobs but you will be still exposed to people who will try to make light conversation with you. Just relax and smile.

Kevin.