I had my first panic attack when I was 15, and I was certain I was dying. In the decade since, I’ve made an uneasy truce with my anxiety, keeping most generalized panic attacks at bay with medication. My social anxiety is trickier; negative internal dialogue and dread are my constant companions, though I’ve learned to hide it well.
Over the past year, I’ve worked to understand myself and took care of my mental health, learning to recognize which of my attributes to embrace (hooray, introversion!), and which behaviors are symptoms of anxiety. I illustrate my ideas and experiences in webcomics called Introvert Doodles (note: introversion and anxiety are not synonymous, I just happen to be someone who lives with both). As I’ve posted my cartoon drawings online, I’ve heard from others dealing with similar challenges, and it’s made me realize that I’m not alone!
This process of drawing comic strips has given me the strength to give up my goal of perfection and replace it with a desire for progress. I’ve realized that even though I’m imperfect, I’m still worth loving. And I hope that maybe my relatable comics will help someone else realize that, too. See my first post here.
More info: introvertdoodles.com | Facebook
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Sometimes Little Successes Are A Big Deal
Man Overboard
Don't Give Up
All The Feelings
Oh and sensory overload while everything feels far away and like a blurry dream.
Three Good Reasons
How many parties have I left early with these exact same thoughts! Thank you for putting it to images/words.
Party On
You're Gonna Be OK
Kittens Are My Kryptonite
Still Awake
Remember That You Are Lovable
Ask What Works For Them (Everyone Is Different)
Extremely Not Fine
Can You Relate?
Please, No
I'm the one "talking at the same time". I even tend to "run over" what the person is saying by trying to talk at the same time. I know it's rude and impolite, which makes me feel worse.
Basically Whenever Anybody Talks To Me
Anxiety Scale
Always Awkward
Useful Excuses
Does anyone have a useful excuse for avoiding a spouse's company party?
Oh boy, you really nailed it. Especially a million post-it notes in the brain. You've been there, babe!
Oh boy, you really nailed it. Especially a million post-it notes in the brain. You've been there, babe!
