"Social anxiety and depression had other plans, leaving me in an ugly cycle of self-isolation and rumination. Terrified of rejection, I'd meet someone interesting during one of my English lectures and invite them out for frozen yogurt in my head."
"By the end of senior year, I'd spent more time waiting for adventures to happen than actually experiencing them. I graduated filled with anger and disappointment in myself for not trying harder to make friends and maximize my four years living on campus."
"After weeks of deliberation, I fought my anxiety and attended one of their meetups. I had a great time, and knowing that there were so many other women of all ages searching for friends made me feel less alone in my struggles."
"Was I still afraid of rejection? Yes. But I didn't want that fear to hinder me the way it did in college and outweigh the potential of making new connections."
Social anxiety and depression significantly impacted the college experience, leading to self-isolation and missed opportunities for connection. Despite a desire for spontaneous adventures and friendships, fear of rejection prevented participation in social activities. After graduation, a move to Chicago inspired a commitment to change. Joining a group called Chicago Girls Who Walk provided a supportive environment to meet new people and engage in activities, helping to overcome previous fears and embrace new experiences.
Read at www.businessinsider.com
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