Well, I used to be very anxious and uncomfortable around people I didn't know. I hated being in large groups and would always slip into the background where I wouldn't be noticed. I'd rather be by myself then surrounded by people in social situations. It all had to stem from being gay and protecting my secret, as well as being a naturally quiet person. I learned that if the less I opened my mouth and the less I was around people, the less of a chance I had with outing myself. My anxiety faded mostly as I came to grips with being gay and came to accept myself, as well as coming out to people. But I'm still a naturally quiet person, but not nearly as bad as before. When I go out to parties, I will admit I still get a little jittery being around all those people. So I usually down a couple drinks fast to get tipsy and loosen up, and stay that way throughout the night. It makes me perfectly relaxed and as outgoing as anyone else there. Its not the best way to deal with being anxious, but it helps a lot and I can control it.