Dealing with Social Anxiety and a Best Friend's Wedding

The best thing to do would be to talk to her in person about it. If you think you may freeze, you can always write a letter and have it on the table for her when she comes over. Saying something like, "I have something very important that I need to talk with you about, can you come over sometime so we can talk in person?" is a good way to put it I have found. The biggest thing is, if they do not take your mental health seriously during the talk, you do not have to accept that treatment. You and your health need to be your very first priority. Everything outside you is secondary, and that includes family and friends. *hug*

If she's really that good of a friend, she will understand, but you need to be completely honest with her about how you're feeling. If you don't explain yourself, you can't expect her to just know & you're obviously concerned about her taking it the wrong way. Communication is KEY!

I had a similar situation last weekend with my aunts wedding. I think it's better to protect yourself and not go. That's what I did and I dont regret it. Plus I think me having a panic attack at the wedding would ruin it and I'd be a burden.

Thank you so much for your help and kindness. It will be a hard conversation to have but I feel like it needs to happen. Ugh.

In the end you need to do what's right for you and your health and wellbeing. If she gets upset, that's something she needs to work out/through. It is not your responsibility. I would hope that she is a friend who will listen and understand should you choose to explain why you are feeling uncomfortable with the idea of going to wedding because of the panic attacks and self harm ideations.

Have you explained how your social anxiety has been affecting you recently to her? If you haven't, I think that would be a good first step. Let her know that you may act differently and that it's not intentional. In the days leading up to the wedding, you could practice coping mechanisms. Find things that help ground you in stressful situations. I personally struggle with social anxiety as well and I tend to beat myself up over events I wasn't able to attend because of my mental state. Do remember that whatever you choose, is the best decision for you. Only you know what you can handle. And don't beat yourself up like I do. Mental health always comes first. Best of luck🤍