Comradery Vs. Social Anxiety

The comradery that is felt among concert-goers enhances the experience and keeps the fans coming together time and time again. Before they arrive at a venue, they have a common bond—a shared love (or at least liking) of music. Many times fans dress similarly or wear other band shirts of different bands that people around might be fans of as well. This helps people feel like they fit in and may even encourage conversation. There is not much room left for judgment (figuratively and literally since everyone is standing shoulder-to-shoulder). Plus, what better place is there to discuss music than at a concert in-between sets?

However, people with similar taste in music do not always get along, especially when there is alcohol involved. Personalities are still different and they still change while under the influence. Not everyone gets nicer. It is not unusual to see security escorting a couple of people out for fighting. Fights that break out are a disturbance to the positive energy of the comradery, but just the fact that there are so many of them creates fear for easygoing fans.

Image credit: jugbo

For those that struggle with anxiety, like myself, being surrounded by people with no easy way to escape already heightens claustrophobia. Then having to worry about a bunch of muscular guys throwing their bodies around and getting caught up in a mosh pit makes it difficult to fully enjoy the show.

In order to get the full feeling of comradery without the anxiety, there are a a couple of notes to keep in mind.

• Go with as many people as possible: It is just simply safer to have more eyes to look out for personal belongings and physical well-being. This is particularly true for the ladies. Plus, there is more force to help keep the mosh pit contained.
• Location is key: Being front and center is awesome, but remember that is a hot spot for rowdy behavior. Far left and right are usually calmer and provide an easier escape from an unwanted situation or to a bathroom or beverage break. In smaller venues, the back can even be a great spot. It provides all the freedom from enclosure while still getting a decent view. 

Remember, live music is fun. It is the responsibility of every concert-goer to keep the comradery alive. It is not that people cannot drink or get a little rowdy. It is just more important to be considerate because not only does everyone there have a similar taste in music, but they are similarly human beings.