After 31 years of avoiding certain situations, getting out of school presentations, having friends introduce me, having people call and make appointments for me — I need to come to terms with the fact that this is me and there is no avoiding it. I have to face my fears. It’s taken me this long to find this reddit thread...But I’m here and it’s opening up so much to me. I’ve never had anyone to talk to about this who actually understands. I appreciate your answer so much you have no idea.