Anxious about going to church

[Orchidaceae]

Hi everybody!

I'm feeling very anxious about going to a new church tomorrow morning. I want to try to go a protestant church but I have no idea what to expect, I've never been to one. I've never been into religion before this past year or so, and I think going to church may be good for me because I want to know more. I know how Catholic mass is but I don't know how Protestant services are different.
Also, I have social anxiety, and I don't llike being around people and "trapped" in a closed space. But I guess that if I really don't feel good I can always sneak out trying not to be noticed (even though I would feel bad for doing that).
Does anybody have any advice or kind words for me, please?

 

[The-Doctor]

I was visiting New York recently and wanted to go to a service at the cathedral there but it was catholic and I was not so was not sure how they would take me but I found them to be friendly and inviting and there was not that much difference in the service.
Try it out you might be surprised but if you still feel uncomfortable then try somewhere else...I have been to churches that were at best cold towards me...I didn't go back.

 

[Kayeliz]

I have the same problem. I went to a Protestant church nearby in September and it was so emotionally draining I haven't been again. I have social anxiety and also anxiety of new situations and so the whole service was really, really hard for me.

 

[hanakins]

How did you get on?

I think the main difference is just less replying back, less ritual and no kneeling

 

[Kayeliz]

How did you get on?

I think the main difference is just less replying back, less ritual and no kneeling

Was that directed at me?

 

[Orchidaceae]

I have the same problem. I went to a Protestant church nearby in September and it was so emotionally draining I haven't been again. I have social anxiety and also anxiety of new situations and so the whole service was really, really hard for me.

I went this morning, and that's exactly how I felt. I have nothing bad to say about the church or the pastor, but I was feeling so bad that I don't think I'll ever go again.
I think going to church is not for me. I felt out of place and my anxiety made me feel very sick. At least I tried but it makes me even more depressed than I am already is because I feel like a failure and not normal
Also, it made me realize how much I need help with my anxiety and depression, and that I really need to do something about it. I can't stay like that, suffering so much.

 

[Chaplain David]

I went this morning, and that's exactly how I felt. I have nothing bad to say about the church or the pastor, but I was feeling so bad that I don't think I'll ever go again.
I think going to church is not for me. I felt out of place and my anxiety made me feel very sick. At least I tried but it makes me even more depressed than I am already is because I feel like a failure and not normal
Also, it made me realize how much I need help with my anxiety and depression, and that I really need to do something about it. I can't stay like that, suffering so much.

I think you have some good insight on some problems you are having. Admittedly they are interfering in your life. I'd recommend that you speak to your doctor about the social anxiety, depression, and anything else that is causing your problems. Perhaps he can refer you to a counselor who treats these conditions. Think how good it would feel to be able to live life without these things causing problems for you. I pray the very best for you and yours.

Faithfully,
CH Sacerdote

 

[J0SHUA]

Does anybody have any advice or kind words for me, please?

Yes I have advice for you. Another person posted in this thread saying she had social anxiety as well. You two should overcome it by skyping together as the first step. That is my awkwardness-inducing suggestion. Haha, seriously though that's what I would do. I will pray for you two