I'm back, baby

[Azi]

Hello everyone,

I've been away from the forum for a number of years. For those that don't know/remember me, I was an active member of the forum from 2007-2018ish and was a mod/admin for a few years as well.

Since I've been away I've made some really positive steps with regards to my SA. However, as I've recovered, I've taken on a lot more responsibilities - my work is very social and I'm finding it increasingly draining and anxiety provoking. My colleagues are supportive and kind but I don't feel that they really 'get' it.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to connecting with people who understand.

[Your Mum]

Azi!

Welcome back.

(Ray)

[Dougella]

Welcome back Azi!

[Azi]

Thank you, Ray! I wondered if you were still here! How's things with you?

[girlinterrupted]

Azi! Hihi so nice to see you back

[Clumsy*]

Welcome back

I've ended up in a very social job too, and although I'm learning loads in communication and relationships, I find it very challenging.

[Azi]

^ it's exhausting isn't it? I find the history of SA makes me more empathic and it's a huge benefit in the role, but it's so taxing as well!

Thanks guys for the warm welcome back.

[horseblanket]

welcome back

[Chess&Junkfood]

Hi Azi

That's an impressive CV you've got there! Over 19000 posts! Moderator/Administrator! I'm guessing your next stop is being world leader! Or just being a forum member is also great. Anyway, welcome back to the forum!

[Appear]

Nice to have you back Azi!!

Good to hear about all your progress! Hopefully being back is helpful!

[biscuits]

Welcome back, Azi!

Hope your sister is okay as well

[Azi]

^^^ World leader? I can't think of anything worse, for me and the world

^ she's doing really well, thank you.

Thanks everyone!

[genovese]

back!

[T]

Welcome Back Azi

[Tubbs]

Azi!! It's so great to have you back

Nice to hear that you've been making progress, too.

[Hopeforme]

welcome back Azi. I wasn't here in the old days however I do recognise your username now.

[gregarious_introvert]

It's really great to see you back, Azi - and to hear about the progress you've made. Your colleagues probably think they understand (after all, everyone experiences some level of anxiety), but they won't know how much it takes out of you, or that there will still be days when it all seems too much. You're home now and amongst friends.

[Azi]

Thanks GI, that's really kind.

[Hopeforme]

GI, lovely words!

[gregarious_introvert]

^ & ^^ I'm just remembering how it was before I (sort of) crossed the line from introvert to extrovert (social interaction doesn't exhaust me anymore, but the anxiety is still present and I still have times when it's just too much), so not particularly kind, just honest.

I always think of GI as being girlinterrupted, who was here before me; I don't mind what I'm called (whatever it is, I'll have been called far worse ) - greg, gregvert, Ian, whatever, but GI feels like I'm stealing someone else's identity

[Azi]

Aah, I remember girlinterrupted! Gregvert it is then

[horseblanket]

Just a hug for a Azi