I can very much relate. I get very anxious and defensive when I feel crowded out, and people can take this the wrong way. When you're feeling secure, personal space isn't so much of an issue, but when you're feeling extra sensitive or vulnerable, and/or have bad past experiences of being surrounded by people [for example I was bullied by a gang of girls in my year group], then being around lots of people can be a huge trigger.
I've walked out of a therapy group before when someone was sitting too close to me. I did go back in again after the panic had calmed, but I did sit on the floor.
I find supermarket queues and public transport my hardest situations. It has got a bit better, apart from when I am pre-menstrual. My ex-psychiatrist advised me to try and tolerate closeness an inch closer each week. It doesn't quite work that way, mate. My therapist, thankfully, is much more understanding and respectful of my need to work things through.
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