What can I do about my anxiety?
Well, I’m 17 and I’ve just about always been shy, but lately I just feel like it’s out of control.
I think it’s ’social anxiety,’ like I’m always SO paranoid about what people are thinking about me and I just feel out of control.
Like, an example is at school during lunch, there’s usually a full table of people, and I just can’t say anything, I want to, but I’m SO afraid I’ll say something stupid or act stupid. And when I DO say something, in my head I’m just like “Ugh, they probably think you’re so weird. That was so stupid.” and just stuff like that. And I KNOW it’s silly but I can’t help it! And then I’ll think about it the rest of the day thinking “Ugh, I’m so stupid!” even if it was nothing anyone will remember.
And it’s the same way with texts, like it takes me forever to send a text (even if it’s to one of my best friends) because I’m afraid they’ll think I’m stupid or something. I hate it.
I’m also really self conscious, like I’m over weight and I have acne and I’m trying really hard to change (I’ve lost weight) but I’m still so paranoid people are embarrassed to be around me or think I’m weird..
I’d just say my biggest problem/fear is that people are embarrassed of me/hate me/think I’m stupid/weird.
And I’m just embarrassed to talk to my mom about it. I don’t want her to worry or feel weird around me. Both my brother and sister already have problems and I don’t want to disappoint her..
It just stresses me out even more.
So, is there a way to just relax and feel more comfortable around people? I’m sick of feeling this way and being “that quiet girl”
Would it be best to tell my mom and get help/medication?
I want to actually have fun my senior year.
Filed under: Acne & Anxiety
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You are a winner! You really are! You wrote an excellent post which was well written. That is so rare in these posts. There are a lot of lazy writers out there. Writing well is a skill.
Part, or most of your problem is a problem with perfectionism. You want only the best from yourself. You are holding yourself back. Being quiet, remote and invisible is safer for some of us.
You need to step out of your comfort zone and take a risk. You did mention friends so that will help.
Go to a football game. If your high school doesn’t have a team, find a school that does. Get in the bleachers and yell your head off with one of your friends. If that doesn’t interest your friend, ask someone else to go. Find a shy guy. That quiet one in the corner who is shyer than you are.
Take tiny steps to get out of your cocoon. Look in on a club meeting at the school. Find something that interests you just a little. They are always anxious for new members. Get on a committee for a bake sale or a charity drive.
Grab the bits of fun where you can. Altogether it will add up to some good memories.
Good Luck!