Just a thought...

How is "brainwashing" different from any form of social influence and socialization?

Speaking from experience with social anxiety disorder, fear is something you have to accept (as human nature) and can't deny, but you can channel your fear and anxiety into something creative. For example, think of something funny or witty to go beyond your bitterness into positive thinking--a witty joke can even be edged with barbs of truth...to voice a legit concern in a more positive tone. If it's about stepping out of social anxiety, think of something funny or even spontaneous to say, transitioning from self-centered thinking about your fear to relational thinking to connect with others. The hard part is to accept and sustain the consequences of your actions whether or not you 'succeed,' but it makes all the difference. Struggles don't have to be perceive as failures but rather be reminders of what you value more.