Hi AnxietyDJ, I'm like this too. I've been like it since I was a kid, still can't stand balloons being popped near me, it makes me really nervy and on edge, I hate bangs etc. I've always suffered with my nerves since my anxiety problems started. Drivers pipping makes me feel on edge and jumpy. When I was at school, kids used to startle me on purpose because they knew how bad my nerves were
I avoid going to noisy places too and avoid loud music, fireworks. You were really brave to go the your friends daughters party even though there were balloons popping
. It must have been anxious, stressful for you but you went and did great, I bet they were happy to see you at the party
When I was at a party when I was a kid, we played a game where we tied balloons around our ankles and had to stamp on other peoples balloons until only 1 person was left with balloons. I only coped for a few seconds and had a panic attack and broke down in tears. I then ran out of the room and refused to go back in until the game was over. I do feel my anxiety and nerves are linked.
Have you talked about this with your doctor or a therapist ?
If your not sure if this linked with your anxiety, you could still ask your doctor for advice or information
and of course, there's always information online. Some people just dont like loud noises and bangs and thats perfectly ok
I imagine most people dislike balloons being popped near them or very loud music, bangs etc. Hope this helps.