It's important to note that only a qualified mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and personalized advice.
From your description, it does sound like you might be experiencing social anxiety, especially if you feel intense fear and physical symptoms like difficulty breathing in social situations. Social anxiety is a common mental health condition where individuals feel overwhelming fear or anxiety in social settings, often fearing judgment, embarrassment, or humiliation.
The reason why you might feel even more scared and experience difficulty breathing in that particular class could be due to several factors:
Triggers: There might be specific triggers in that class that evoke more anxiety for you. These triggers could be related to the environment, people in the class, or the structure of the class itself.
Past experiences: Negative past experiences in that class or similar settings may have conditioned your brain to associate it with fear and anxiety.
Performance pressure: If the class involves public speaking or performance, it can exacerbate anxiety, especially if you fear being judged or evaluated negatively.
Perceived scrutiny: You may believe that you are being closely observed or judged by others in that specific class, leading to increased anxiety.
Sensitivity to evaluation: Certain situations might be more anxiety-inducing because they involve more significant interactions or potential evaluation by others.
If you find that your social anxiety is significantly affecting your daily life, well-being, and ability to function, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis, offer coping strategies, and recommend appropriate treatments, such as therapy (like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, CBT) or, in some cases, medication.
In the meantime, consider trying relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices to help manage anxiety symptoms. Also, remember that you are not alone, and seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor can be beneficial. Social anxiety is a treatable condition, and with the right support and resources, it's possible to learn strategies to cope and lead a fulfilling life.