Lately, as I've been watching the news, I literally feel on edge when I'm walking alone at night. It feels like someone is constantly following me, but is it normal to feel this way? My friends say, 'You're so paranoid,' but I don't feel at ease at all. Is there anyone else experiencing this? Is it normal, or is there something wrong with me?
I had the same experience as well; I was walking one evening in Istanbul, constantly turning around to see if someone was following me. Then I went to a psychologist, and they said it was the beginning of anxiety. I had been watching the news too much, and it had seeped into my subconscious. If it's affecting your daily life, I recommend talking to a professional.
If you're feeling really anxious, you should talk to a psychologist right away, but if you need to walk at night for safety, keep a whistle or pepper spray with you. It's legal to carry both, so you won’t run into any issues. At least it will help you feel a bit more relaxed.
Let me be frank, sure you might have your fears, but there’s really no logic in being this paranoid in detail. I mean, does someone really follow you every evening? Neighborhood pressure, exaggerated news, and all that can affect a person. You need to be a bit more cool-headed.
What you're feeling could be a general security concern. Individuals who constantly feel "am I being followed" while walking alone may have experienced a traumatic event or been triggered by news. If it has become consistent and is affecting your daily routine, I recommend speaking with a clinical psychology expert.
Let me add that I don't feel this way during the day, but as soon as evening comes, it starts. Especially as I get closer to home, this feeling intensifies. The surroundings become lonelier, and I think that affects me too. I find myself constantly checking behind me.
You're right, I can't walk alone late around the dorm either. I'd go out with a friend or something. There's really no need to stress yourself out this much. Why not plan a walk with one of your friends? It would be a nice chance to chat and relax.
