There will be plenty of times when you genuinely want to attend an event, but anxiety makes you hesitate or pulls you back at the last minute. For many people, this shows up most strongly in crowded or overstimulating environments. If that sounds familiar, it doesn’t mean you have to choose between skipping the event entirely or forcing yourself to suffer through it. There are ways to reduce anxiety while still showing up. Some strategies are more impactful than others, and they’re worth keeping in your back pocket. A few simple event anxiety tips can make a noticeable difference, no matter what kind of event you’re attending.
Wear comfortable clothes.
Clothes can have a psychological impact and affect how you feel. Even if your options are somewhat limited, choose the most comfortable clothing available to you. Comfort isn’t only physical—it’s psychological. Wearing clothes that help you feel relaxed, confident, or familiar can calm your nervous system. Sometimes it’s not about the perfect outfit at all; it might be something small, like your favorite sweater or even your “lucky socks,” that helps you feel more grounded and at ease.
Know where help is.
There may be moments when, despite your best efforts, anxiety feels overwhelming or you sense an anxiety attack coming on. Knowing where support is ahead of time can make a big difference. Ideally, you’ll have a trusted friend or family member with you. Many events also have on-site medical support for events and it’s worth finding out where they’re located before the event begins. Even if you never need to use that support, simply knowing it’s available can provide reassurance and reduce anticipatory anxiety.
Remind yourself why you’re there.
If you start feeling a little anxious, refocus on your reason for attending. Whether it’s hearing a specific speaker, seeing a favorite band, or supporting someone you care about, there’s usually a positive motivation behind your decision. Returning to that purpose can ease anxiety or at least a distraction from your anxious thoughts. It can also help counter the urge to leave prematurely—especially when you know you might regret missing out later.
Avoiding anxiety is a natural instinct, but it can be more challenging for some people than others. That doesn’t mean you have to push through without support. With the right strategies in place, attending events can feel far more manageable—and even enjoyable.