I have dealt with s.anxiety on and off throughout my life. My current strategy is to be as much "myself" as possible and be as honest as possible.-you know, genuine. I find that fighting it just makes it (the anxiety)worse. Regular exercuse seems to have a positive effect...In times of trouble, I Remind myself that most folks aren't even that good on picking up on anxiety anyway. -too wrapped up in their own heads.
One thing I know for sure, alcohol was ABSOLUTELY DISASTER in what it did to my anxiety. Like gas on a fire.
My new found confidence in its absence is THE main reason I don't return. I just can't live in fear like I was anymore.
You'll find a way. Keep researching.