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Do you close up and become more quiet at larger gatherings?

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Somerset, KY
September 22
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

When we have a family gathering, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, both my husband and I tend to do a lot more listening than talking. That has always been the case, but more so now. Nobody wants to hear complaints so we don't talk about what is happening with us. They don't ask. We don't do a lot so don't really have good news to share. With a lot of people around, it is hard to get a word in edgewise when the discussion is general, so we usually don't bother. Jim's slow quiet speech means a person has to really want to listen, and most people don't.

September 24
MyParkinsonsTeam

Do you find yourself withdrawing or becoming quieter at larger social gatherings?

This is something many people with Parkinson's can relate to. Social situations can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons tied to the condition, including:

- Speech changes – Parkinson's can cause a softer or more monotone voice, making Show Full Answer

Do you find yourself withdrawing or becoming quieter at larger social gatherings?

This is something many people with Parkinson's can relate to. Social situations can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons tied to the condition, including:

- Speech changes – Parkinson's can cause a softer or more monotone voice, making it harder to be heard in noisy environments
- Facial masking – reduced facial expressions can make it feel harder to engage naturally in conversation
- Fatigue – larger gatherings can be physically and mentally draining
- Anxiety – social anxiety is a recognized non-motor symptom of Parkinson's
- Motor symptoms – tremors or movement difficulties can make some people feel self-conscious in public

As one MyParkinsonsTeam member put it, Parkinson's is very personal to each individual, and experiences in social settings will vary greatly from person to person.

It can help to plan ahead — choosing quieter spots, attending during your "on" times when medication is working well, and letting trusted people know how you're feeling. Talking to your neurologist about social anxiety or fatigue may also open up helpful management options.

You're definitely not alone in feeling this way.

September 22

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