https://ift.tt/2W09LBh How many of you have had a night out planned, or arranged coffee with friends and suddenly the 4 walls you inhabit seem the only safe haven because it's the only place you don't have to pretend you are ok, so you cancel. Or when you are invited out you tell them how terribly sorry you are but you're already booked up that weekend, when you are actually just really busy holding it together in your safe box. Or you agree to something and spend the week fretting over how to cancel without it being too obvious. And so the first problem starts, all by itself. People stop asking you and the isolation that at first wasn't true becomes your only truth. . For those doing this, know that you are loved and your friends enjoy your company - or they wouldn't ask you to be there. Maybe they know you're struggling and they want you to have some you time, some time to let your hair down - time to smile and laugh and feel their love and support. Next time, push yourself at least that once out of your comfort zone. You'll be safe and it may be what you need to start healing. You have to give that a try. . For friends on the receiving end - please never give up. Don't get frustrated. Don't point it out. Gentle encouragement is key. If you have friends doing this and you don't already know - they're probably struggling and haven't told you yet. Be there for them. The last thing they need is for you to turn their self conscious feelings of loneliness in to reality. . #anxiety #anxietyrelief #anxietyhelp #socialanxiety #anxietysupport #anxietyproblems #anxietywarrior #anxietyfighter #anxietyisreal #overcominganxiety #anxietyquote #anxietyanddepression #anxietycoach #anxietymanagement #anxietylife #friends #friendship #goodfriends #friendshipgoals #friendshipquotes #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #mentalwellness #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthquotes #mikemeetslife via Instagram https://instagr.am/p/B_cqsTWgP2I/