Eating in public fear

Is there anyone out there who also has a fear of eating in public or at resturants.

I am absolutely phobic when it comes to resturants of any kind. Just simply walking through the door sends me into a panic attack. Then the thought of some stranger who does not know about my food sensitivities preparing my food makes me scared to eat it. I also feel judged by others because I pick at food badly.
I have spoken to my GP about this and also my counceller and both have said that I should face it this fear.

So I guess what I am asking is... does anyone else face this???

Nope! How long have you had this fear? You should try to overcome. Living in constant fear is bad for your health!

I do not share your fear, but I am picky about where I eat. I grew up around restaurants, as my dad was a chef, and an excellent one!
I agree, you should face your fear!
First, stay away from chain restaurants. They tend to use things like meat tenderizers alot, and that can be tough on food sensitivities.
Second, find a GOOD restaurant, with a trained or executive chef, one that uses fresh and local ingredients. Ask to speak with the chef, tell him about your sensitivities. You'll be surprised how accomadating they can be!

I highly recommend looking for a restaurant in your area that specializes in organic products. They are highly likely to cater to your needs.

Hope this all helps!

I pick at my food ALL the time and chuck off the crap I don't need or want. When I'm hardcore with my low carb, I'll order a burger and ditch the bun. I may get looks, but I don't give a damn. I'm eating for me, not them. If someone judges what you eat when you're pursuing a certain eating style, they can suck it.

I have a friend who has severe life threaten allergies (fish, peanuts, to name a few). But over the years she has discovered that A) vegan organic restaurants are the best for her and B) she plans ahead when she is going, she will call ahead of time, talk to the chef, make arrangements with that chef so he/she is the one cooking and that they understand her requirements.

She doesn't eat out often, and its only super expensive places that will make these arrangements, but she has found a couple that are very accommodating.

In your shoes, I would recommend to check out the restaurant online, decide if you like the menu ect, then call, and book a light meal (maybe a soup or salad) at a time when the restaurant is not busy ( like a 3pm snack rather than a mid dinner rush at 6), and talk to the chef. Good luck!