A lot of the time I get really anxious responding to people! Idk if that’s what your friend experiences, but sometimes I really just enjoy chilling with someone. Their presence really is enough :) oftentimes I really enjoy this thing called ‘parallel play’, where two people do independent things at the same time. So for example, two people paint on their own canvas! Maybe they talk about something for a second or two, but mostly it’s just chill-time. I oftentimes find that my thoughts are kinder when someone I feel safe around is nearby :) so in the example, when I’m painting I get to enjoy it just a bit more!

When I talk to my friend on the phone, I don't talk usually unless she says something first.

Many times when I'm overstimulated, I don't want to talk but I do enjoy the company

at one point my depression got so bad that I was a selective mute. it could just be a coping mechanism to make your friend feel more in control of what’s around them. for me at least, not talking almost made me feel heard or seen better because it was so apparent that I wasnt happy/talking. being told that what I am saying is wanted/people like my conversation eventually made me talk more

For the past few months I've been struggling with my physical and mental health, and it hurts me to have a feeling that I'm ruining my relationship with my family by having these panic attacks.

My wife has bad social anxiety so when there's say new doctors she needs me to go with her because I'll do a lot of the talking for her and am just there for support for her to be able to feel better about answering questions. She does struggle to look people in the face, so she'll usually look near their feet

Thank you everyone for explaining how this effects you or a loved one, its so helpful to hear people's personal experiences, because it can be so hard to understand. I really appreciate you sharing. Much love to you and with the adversities you face. 💕💕

Depression for me anyway