Ruining my life

[gloves123]

In my science and tech class, I have to make a letter on the scroll saw. I have an ok understanding on how to use it and have no problem cutting out the shape. But you see, I have social anxiety disorder. I have tried to get myself to cut out the shape but I just can't! I feel like people are watching me and judging me. I am the only person who has not finished their letter yet. I haven't even started. I explained to my dad that I just can't, but he does not know about my disorder so he does not understand. I asked to teacher if I could cut it at home, but he's a jerk so I can't. It doesn't help that the saws are right next to the " popular" table. Everyone is done and they will think that I'm stupid! This stupid disorder is ruining my life! I can't tell anyone, they won't understand or will say I'm just shy and will get over it! My parents still think I'm over my depression, only after a month Of them knowing. They also think I have stopped cutting, but they don't know that I can cut more than just my arms. I feel like I'm falling apart, I want to scream. [Edited] I can't take it anymore!

[simon thompson]

Hi, can you just ignore that people are watching you and judging you!! No one has the time to do this. Moreover most of the people are normally never happy to see good things/ good qualities of the other people.

Be honest, how many times do you watch others and judge them as well......

[PSY]

Hello, Rashel! Social phobias are very difficult to deal with - I know, because I used to suffer from one. =(

First things first, are you currently seeing a psychological professional about this, and everything else you mentioned? If not, I would talk to your parents about getting a referral to someone. If you don't think they will listen, talk to a trusted adult (ex. a teacher, counselor, or family friend) and ask them to meet with you and your parents during/after school to discuss what's going on. As difficult as this may be, you need to be honest with people about your struggles if you're going to get any help for them. I'm not saying you can't get help on your own, of course - but it certainly helps to have adults to talk to, people who have gone through similar struggles and overcome them.

Worst-case scenario, if your parents refuse to help you in finding a psychological professional, I would start calling people in the area and explain your situation to them. Depending on the circumstances, you CAN attend therapy at your age without your parents' consent. You can also receive treatment for free or at a very low rate, depending on whom you actually see (ex. an intern vs. a licensed professional).

Keep in mind that if you don't currently have a diagnosis of depression, social phobia, etc. your treatment options may be limited (ex. the ability to be prescribed medication or attend certain treatment programs). You would need to see a psychological professional for an assessment and diagnosis, THEN you could switch to a lower-cost option afterward.

[JustACityBoy]

agh I feel this exactly. I'm in a popular class and I only have 1 friend, 0 acquaintances (no one talks to either of us.... /wrists) other then in lunch.

I have so much social anxiety too and honestly I don't know what to do either but to change my first impression of everyone next year. I know it sounds stupid but I'm transferring out next year and I'm staying like a socially award kid for this year, and then going to try to get through my social disorder by playing Maplestory and joining this forum for talk and advice, changing through the summer vacation. I personally never did one of my labs which were spanking 30% of my grade just because I was too nervous to talk to another person in another lab group. (we all had different results)
But to be honest I think you should forget those people. Doesn't matter what they think, which is why I'm quite... bored but satisfied in school, even though I'm alone. I regret not doing that lab though... my grades are quite low for honors class and I'm on the borderline of being kicked out of one. You should cut your letter, forget the other guys.

[Artistic Soul]

Hey,
I know how tough social disorders can get.
I suggest you to talk to your parents thoroughly ,as they MIGHT not be clear about your anxieties. You can try going to a therapist/counselor. Probably, your parents will send you to one, once they understand the situation. If, by any chance, they take the matter lightly and don't take any action, then you can always consult your school's counselor, or seek advice from the teachers, friends, etc.. As PSY mentioned, one can take therapy without parents' consent.
And as for the popular crowd, I think you should just ignore them. They should just mind their own business and get a life, after all! I know it seems easy to say, but just give it a try. Ignore them.
I hope everything works out well. Feel free to get in tuch. Remember, I am only a PM/VM away. Stay strong!
Lots of love,
Mandy xx