How to Survive Parties: A Guide for the Socially Anxious

1 December 2015


If you suffer from social anxiety, the thought of attending a party can be a nightmare scenario. So many people and you probably only know a small percentage of them. All talking louder and louder until they're shouting just to be heard and seen over the other people around them. It can be incredibly daunting, even if you usually can handle these situations. 

Social anxiety can be overwhelming at times, but supplements have been proven to help with that. It doesn't need to be stressful acquiring them either, as you can easily order them online at places like goldbee.com 

I've paired up with costume company "Disguises" to put together a guide on how to attend those events you just can't miss.

1. Armour Up

If the goal is to fit in, become anonymous. Nothing will make you stand out more than misreading the vibe of the party. Is it a jeans and chill kinda thing. Should I wear heels? Is it a themed costume party?? A dress up party is ideal for people who suffer from social anxiety because hiding behind a mask can put a physical barrier between you and the rest of the crowd. Roll your eyes in peace behind the safety of your creepy Yoda mask

Check out costume retailers like Disguises and get yourself something rad but also comfortable. 
The key is to blend in. Don't chuck a Bridget Jones.


2. Take Back Up

Do you really want to go to a party where you don't know anyone? Well apart from the host which I'm just guessing you know. They'll likely be too busy hosting to keep you cool and collected. Stick with your friends, or maybe the host has a pet dog that you can go sit in the yard and pet. That's the best backup if I have ever seen one. As a last resort, take a plus one. That means they probably won't know anyone else either, so they'll only have you to talk to also! While you pet the cat.

3. Know Your Limits

You know when you've seen reached your limits. You showed up, and if the host really knows you, then they should truly appreciate what a feat that was. If they don't then screw them, why did you even come to this crappy party?? If you're not quite ready to leave yet, take a breather, in the bathroom alone or in the backyard hugging a fluffy pup. If you're not loving the situation you're in, move somewhere else.

4. Have An Exit Strategy

It's best to prep in advance that you can't stay long, for whatever reason. Which makes it all the easier when you have to leave. Especially if you've already given an excuse. No need to come up with one on the spot. Plus your excuse can just as easily be put aside if you find you’re doing okay and want to stay.

I find saying goodbye at a house party seriously awkward. Do you want people to make a fuss if you're leaving? What if they make no fuss at all, what if they don't even care? What if they make a judgey comment about you leaving? If there is enough people at an event, I mostly just leave without saying anything. Make up some reason about it later. Once you get outta there. No reason you should stick around waiting for a good window to announce your goodbye.


Anxiety can be a bitch but you can try your hardest to have it under an ounce of control. I know it's dumb but sometimes there's events that you're just kinda expected to be at. 

Be it with friends or family. Sometimes you actually want to go, just sitting home watching an entire series on Netflix looks more enticing. 

Honestly though that will always look more enticing.





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9 comments

  1. Thanks for sharing these great tips!!

    Candice | Beauty Candy Loves

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  2. im going to a blogger party saturday and i have a fellow blogger coming. Thank GOD! haah
    Pam xo/ Pam Scalfi♥

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  3. Although I'm a pretty social person, sometimes it can be really daunting to go to an event where you don't know anyone! Thanks for these tips Tegan! x

    Margarita Chi | MARGARITACHI.CO

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  4. Oh I will definitely be aware of this list! I got a lot of parties this year! =)

    Have a great week! Melanie | Blog: Toots + Dill

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  5. I hate parties. I say this as someone who has friends who love parties and brought me to a few. I hated them, mostly because I cannot stand the atmosphere and would rather just hide in the bathroom. As I've done at least twice so far.

    My favourite exit strategy? "I have severe diarrhea and must evacuate the premise else it will smell like a sewage plant." Works. Every. Time.

    Hahah, I've missed reading your blog, Tegan! And I missed you! <3

    xx Bash | Hey Bash | bloglovin'

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  6. Great post!! I have really bad social anxiety - have missed a few friends birthdays because of it but it's getting better. Always nice to have reminders like this that I'm not alone and it's okay <3

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  7. Loving this, Tegan. As someone who gets social anxiety often, I usually hide myself in a corner whenever I am dragged to a party. I friggin hate them, but great tips nonetheless. Exit strategies forever.

    May | THE MAYDEN

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  8. Oh my god yes the goodbye is so stressful, and you may trick yourself into thinking you want to be there but some conversations seem so pointless and uncomfortable, but being alone feels so pathetic. Having back up really is the best way to go. Just make sure they're the comfortable kind.

    -M
    The Life of Little Me

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  9. Have an exit/escape route is always top of my list. I suffer with social anxiety and I feel like I can't breathe if I don't have a clear path to the door! these tips are life savers!!x

    AimeeSueXO
    Bloglovin

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Thanks so much for commenting everyone! I read and appreciate every single one of your comments! xx