First-date anxiety can be difficult, particularly if you already live with anxiety in other areas of your life.
However, planning a first date that maximizes your strengths and minimizes anxiety can be helpful.
At a Glance
First dates can be extra nerve-wracking if you have social anxiety disorder.
Getty / Tim Robberts
Other options that involve participating in some throw in of an activity are often less anxiety-provoking.
This takes the pressure off of you both as you get to know each other.
A fun atmosphere will also help you to relax and laugh at yourself.
Instead, focus on coming up with some general topics you might like to discuss.
Having some goodsmall-talk conversation starterscan help guide a conversation.
Remember to ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing.
Taking a fewdeep, steadying breathscan also help calm your mind and body.
Dating apps can be a great way to meet people and get more practice meeting potential romantic interests.
Research suggests that people who have social anxiety tend to use dating apps more often.
While it can be tough to reach out, treatment can help you feel a lot better.
Porter E, Chambless DL, Keefe JR.Criticism in the romantic relationships of individuals with social anxiety.Behav Ther.
2014 Jun;70(6):54661. doi:10.1002/jclp.22048
