SA can impair relationships, work performance and quality of life. Common signs include dread of everyday activities, low self esteem, fear of being judged and panic attacks. It can be a sign for other anxiety disorders and phobias such as Glossophobia, Phonophobia, Post-traumatic stress disorder and Panic disorder. It can also overlap with the Autistic spectrum and depression.
Social anxiety is quite common among anime fans and gamers. Anime, TV and films allow you to escape from a bustling world and games allow you to explore different worlds without dealing with real people. As a result, conventions can be a dizzying and overwhelming experience. SA is often lifelong but it can be controlled with medication and therapy. Consider talking to a doctor to discuss ways to control it. Cognitive behavioural therapy is considered one of the most effective therapies available. You work with a therapist over a course of several months to pinpoint any abnormalities to your thought pattens and train you to become more positive. Psychopherepy and medications are can also be considered if CBT is not being effective enough.
Depending on how SA affects you it is entirely possible to attend these events depending on how you can manage your anxiety. If you have any doubts, make sure you consider going to small local events.
Obviously the best way around it is to go with some close and trusting friends. Thankfully from experience there are often places to escape to, like a quiet hallway and anime/film rooms can be quite therapeutic. When it gets too much you can always retreat to your hotel room or have a room party with a handful of people. Books, music players, drawing pads and handheld games can be a good distraction if you are in a bar or lining up for an event.
Be sure to take lots of breaks to recharge. In my earlier days I used to spend an hour in my room alone when there is nothing to do and there is a while before the next event. I used that time to enjoy a cup of tea and snack, phone my parents to make sure they know I am fine and perhaps have a powernap. That allowed me to be awake and refreshed for the parties and any other evening entertainment. Now I am more confident in such settings I dont need to do that anymore and save those moments for when I am getting changed between events.
Certainly do not be put off from cosplaying. Being someone else for a day might make you feel more comfortable and you can enjoy the convention more (people often feel left out when they are not in costume). Remember you have the privilege to decline being photographed and when it becomes too much you can just change back into civvies at anytime!
You do not have to be a social butterfly to enjoy conventions. If it makes you feel better you can just consider them as a weekend away with good friends. Make it gradual and do not put too much pressure on yourself, some people like to chat randomly in the bar so its always nice to get to know others. Maybe you'll make a new friend when you order a drink or complement on some art in the artist's alley.
Jump straight to the blog post: How cosplay has changed me as a person
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