There are many ways in which we can act to "feel more safe" interacting socially, or being around people or anticipating socialising. Safety behaviours, maintained cause even more social anxiety. As a way to get out of a social situation, or a way to challenge or decrease our anxiety, we think it helps. Facing the situations that cause you anxiety, one step at a time with a therapist or professional dealing in this field, you can sustain those loving relationships and gain more support, confidence and especially loving self worth. Here is an extremely helpful, wonderful post on Safety Behaviours in Social Anxiety:(source) https://www.verywellmind.com/what-are-safety-behaviors-that-maintain-social-anxiety-3024885