For many women with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), anxiety can feel like a lingering confirmation that everything isn’t okay. My anxiety constantly challenged my femininity and identity as a woman.

READ: Chrisette Michele Opens Up About Living With PCOS

At one point, I gained so much weight that I developed social anxiety and actually feared going out in public. Whenever my friends would invite me out to events I would panic.

What if they notice all the weight I’ve gained?

What if I can’t fit any of my clothes?

What if I don’t have time to remove the hair from my chin?  

PCOS and Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is extreme worry and fear of being looked upon negatively or judged by others in social settings. Women with PCOS are more susceptible to mental health issues like anxiety and depression due to stressors related to difficulty conceiving, excessive hair growth, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, hormonal imbalances and menstrual cycle abnormalities.

Anxiety is a common effect of PCOS and women with PCOS are more likely to suffer from anxiety than women without PCOS.

READ: 11 Natural Remedies For Anxiety

Below is my guide to dropping the worry and rocking confidence with social anxiety and PCOS.

Start on the inside

In order to rock confidence you have to be confident. Take some time to really celebrate the woman that you are. Make a list of everything good about yourself. What are your strengths? Your self-image is the foundation to your confidence.

READ: Create Your Own Gratitude Jar

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