naydeen40

Lemme start by saying I have real bad anxiety and I got up the courage to
to go to first face to face meeting tonight and i left after 20mins. I had a freaking panic attack because I didn't know what to expect was afraid i be asked to talk. I mean I give myself props for the attempt I need to stay. maybe next time.

least

Yes, do try again. If they ask you to speak just shake your head 'no'. Maybe talk to someone before the meeting. Go early enough to talk to someone privately. I assure you, they won't bite you. Go early, before the meeting starts, and talk to someone. Explain to them how scared you are. They will understand.

Dee74

There's a lot of experience in this thread naydeen - it may help for next time

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...-tomorrow.html

D

naydeen40

Thx all
I will give it another try and take the suggestion arrive earlier and talk to some peeps. I will read the link too.

**hugs*
Naydeen

kiki5711

Talk, my friend, talk!!! When I was in rehab, they couldn't get me to shut up! I had something to say, ALL the time. I think other patients there started thinking "oh, no, there's that ONE again!"

Anna

Welcome Naydeen,

And, don't forget there is always someone here at SR to offer support.

ArtDeco454

No need to be afraid, everyone there has gone through the same...Go back, give it another try. You can do it.

artsoul

The first time doing something is stressful. I have a huge fear of speaking, too, so I understand your reaction. If someone calls on you or they're going around in a circle and it's your turn, just say that you don't feel like sharing at this time. Lots of people do that.

It takes a while to get comfortable in a group - just be patient with yourself!

CarolD

You could ask your best friend to go with you
lots of new people do that for awhile...

I've never attended an AA meeting where anyone was
required to speak....unless they want to.

Try to relax...AA is an awesome adventure . for many of us.