Strategies for Calming Down in Public

try to imagine you’re a background character in one of your favorite movies or tv shows, like if you weren’t there the scene would be incomplete.

I have this same problem it is big ordeal every place I go I will try wearing my air pods to the store next time though see how it goes

I have two tactics. First, if I can get someone to go with me that helps a ton. A buffer person. Or, if that's not an option, I pop in my earbuds and listen to a podcast or some music. Helps keep my mind occupied. I do prefer to go early or later when less people are shopping 👀👀👀

It helps me a lot to make a list of what I need and grab those things first. After that, to try and push myself a little, I will walk through a couple other isles and try to focus on the stuff I see on the shelves, not the people.

I either go at night or when they first open, the crowds can be a little much. Also wearing big comfy clothes helps me feel a little more “hidden” when i’m really anxious. Walking back to an calm empty section until i’m ready to continue shopping also helps, having a “safe” place in the store is important

Go within the first two hours of them opening

Try counting down and walking away

For me I usually will have my headphones on in like every store I go in and have music playing. I just focus on the lyrics of the song rather than the people. I also try to be in and out. I hope this helps.