What is my problem?

Question

I would really like to understand why I don't feel happy inside. I don't have a bad life at all, my childhood was rough but these days my life isn't bad. But, I'm not happy with who I am. I pretend I am fine and happy to everyone, when really, I'm not. I'm only 18 and I just want to be happy. Here are a few things that I feel throughout my days.
-I get very uncomfortable when i'm the center of attention.
-I feel it's going to be awkard when I hang out with somebody one on one or even talking to someone, I often stay home because of this. (I'm fine when I'm with a friend tho)
-Just walking down the street, I feel everyone is watching me and judging me so I try to be perfect...I think this could have something to do with the fact that my mom, aunt, sister and friends tell me that everyon stares at me when I walk by. Some may find that a compliment, but it bothers me.
-No matter how much I tell myself not to care what others think, I do.
thanks for reading..anyone else feel this way?

Answer 1

Sounds like symptoms associated with a Social Anxiety Disorder, particularly if you have felt this way much of your life. Talk with a counselor who can help you develop some coping skills and greater self-esteem and perhaps reccomend a psychiatrist if this does not seem to be enough. Many of the SSRI's have been beneficial in relieving the symptoms, at least enough to allow you to go out and try new skills and behaviors with less anxiety.

Answer 2

When I was your age I experienced exactly the same symptons. I agree with many of the respondants and say yes it is part of growing into an adult (the sadness about leaving childhood behind) but I now know I could have saved myself many years of pain and agony by addressing problems with my diet.

There is a fabulous, life-changing book called 'Potatos not Prozac' (your local library should have it) which explains how our diet affects our brain chemicals and as a result our moods and emotions.

For ANYONE who is depressed I cannot recommend this book more highly. It saved my life from constant depression, maybe it would help you too. Goood luck and chin up

PS try to learn that most other people are not even aware you exist, so it's fairly pointless 'trying to be perfect' cos nobody really notices..okay? You are beautiful and perfect just the way you. NOBODY ELSE in the world can be as good as you are at being yourself.

Answer 3

Sure, I've felt that way. My specific feelings have been different, but the overall feeling was the same. Perhaps you have some problems left from your past that you still need to sort out, and thats the reason for your feelings. Or perhaps you feel the way you do because you're afraid people will judge and reject you. Think about it, see if you can find a reason for your feelings. If you wanna talk about it more, I'd gladly listen, just message me. Best of luck.

Answer 4

done that been there
I had to go out in small bite of time and then after awhile it became easier
I still do not like crowds but I have come to the conclusion that it is okay
when I find myself in the center of attention I try to go on thinking to myself that they are only people too
things are easier if you go out with a friend
I still like to go shopping or someplace with my older kids
as for the family telling you that everyone is staring at you it may be true then again it may not be they may be playing on your fears. You may only feel like they are staring at you--and I do not think most people have even the closest right to judge anyone least of to judge you since they are not perfect and neither are you.

Answer 5

Honey, people look because they like what they see. There's nothing wrong. As "Ade" said, you are just growing up. You're 18, the last vestige of childhood --- soon a woman!
It's messing you up but we (your elders) have all been there and we survived - so will you!

Re: being happy
Remember that movie "Happy Gilmore"? Do what Adam Sandler did - go to your happy place.

Smile, pretty girl!

Answer 6

YES OF COURSE I DID FELT THE SAME WAY WHEN I WAS AT YOUR AGE! you have an inferiority complex. thats common problem to teens at their stage of dvelopment, struggling to search for realities in life while not really trying to search for it. its a good sign though but i suggest you do try to search for it not just asking ang asking why!!!!! identity, sense of belonging, etc. first because you are not comfortable with yourself beacause of the question why, deep inside you know you need to be changed and feell confident until the why question does not bother you anymore.
until you learn to accept the beauty inside and the beauty inspite an ugliness and the spirit of sharing oneself to others, even just your presence (which is tho the only essence in life is to share with others) you wont be able to find the beauty of the outside world and of course..........the essence of LIVING!
thats ok........unless you start learning and searching through GOOD BOOKS for 1.

Answer 7

Sounds like depression and anxiety. The anxiety sounds situational. Perhaps you could find a good psychiatrist who will listen to your problems and perhaps prescribe some medication to you.

Good luck and I hope you feel better soon.

Answer 8

maybe u are beautiful and ppl love you. i try not to care but it sucks when i am on the street at times. if u want no judgment and strictly a pen pal i'm here [e-mail]. i'm doing this cuz i am still dealing with insecurities my self.

Answer 9

i am much older than you but i sometimes feel like the center of attention when im in group situations like a class. i feel like i must not be socially awkward but it feels like a lot of pressure unless i am with close family. hopefully there s more of us than we think!

Answer 10

You're gonna hate this answer, but its the truth. You're growing up. I went through it, every thing you wrote. It will pass as you age and become more comfortable in your skin.