Do you think never getting out (with friends) is unhealthy?

Question

I keep thinking thats the reason I have S.A.D.

(I'm 14)

S.A.D -social anxiety disorder

I have a fear of being judged by others.

Answer 1

I don't think it is unhealthy, but dont' get me wrong. I do think it is very important to interact with people, but you need to be ready to do that mentally and physically.
You need to start slow, spend time outside the home with family, then slowly move on to hanging out with your friends.
Your so young, and you asking this question to the world just shows that you are open to make a change. S.A.D is so common because most people don't get out during the winter time. The weather is usually icky, there are so many holidays people are celebrating, so a lot of times your friends and family aren't around.
Don't categorize yourself too much. You are only 14 years old. Its normal to want to be by yourself sometimes, but you need to know that there are many people out there that would miss out on a great friendhsip if you werent around, so its not a bad idea to hang out with a friend or two every now and then. If you don't feel like going out with your friends, at least try to stay in touch with them over the telephone, that way when springtime comes, you havn't missed out on a thing!

Answer 2

Yeah, seriously, human beings are social creatures. We need one another.

I find it hard. You know, if you're an adult, you're not livin in the place you grew up, and you just want basic, social company, it's very difficult! But there are things you can do.

First of all, make up a hobby. Maybe it's something you are into, or were into previously, or maybe you just make up a new thing. Like, decide you're into tap dancing. Or Hockey. Or Quilting. I don't know you, so I can't really suggest something pertinent. But whatever you enjoy, I guarantee there's a group that meets weekly to talk about it.

I'm a ridiculous knitter. At 14, I have no idea what you might be interested in. On-line games, maybe? Films? Fashion? Fitness of some sort, like biking or running? Find a bunch of nuts like yourself. We are ALL nuts, so there's no reason to feel uncomfortable about this.

Oh, here's my other advice: Don't define yourself by your disorder. I think that's such a mistake. Just because you're having probelms with a certain thing now (maybe lack of daylight) doesn't mean that you have a life sentence of having S.A D. Hey, define yourself by your GOOD qualities, not your problems.

Oh, and write me if you'd like to chat. I'm at [e-mail]

Good luck!

L

Answer 3

I don't know what S.A.D. is, but I barely go out with friends either. It's not because I don't want to but bcs I don't have time. But I think it would help to go out, and unstress yourself and just have fun.

Answer 4

Actually, according to my fiance' my problem is that I go out with friends TOO much. (there's never a happy balance it seems.....hang in there....BTW, isn't 14 awful young to be tagged with S.A.D?)

Answer 5

I don't know if its unhealthy but i do the same thing. I am also 14 and I have never gone out with any friends.

Answer 6

Yes, its bad. We need social ontact etc.

It is probably not the reason you have SAD tho, if you do.

Answer 7

Yes it can be unhealthy, try to get out more maybe and cheer up!!!

Answer 8

I hope not because I NEVER go out with friends.

Answer 9

yes

Answer 10

yes