Why do I feel embarrassed about having anxiety?

[scotty_5]

Hi.

I'm 17 years old, and I've had anxiety issues for almost a year :( - the feeling sick/light-headed feel.

My Mum told my tutors/teachers about it a few weeks before Christmas, because I was off a lot and I/she didn't want them to think I was just bunking off lessons - I like college, and get bored when I stay home.

But, today and yesterday, I've been off because it's starting to upset me quite a bit because it feels like it's controlling me. I'm going back to the Doctors this evening, but when my Mum phones up college to say I'm off due to the anxiety, I kinda feel embarrassed?

I think it's because I think they'll think something like "what's there to get nervous about?".

I hate staying off, but it's got me a bit down lately. But, do you think that's why I do feel a bit embarrassed?

cheers

[hannyt2000]

hey
firstly dont be embarrassed. millions of people suffer with anxiety! including myself. i know how you feel though about phoning in college but trust me you wont be the only one to have phoned up and said your not well enough to go in due to personal problems ie anxiety.
I myself am off work at the moment as i seem to be going through a difficult spell with depression and anxiety, i was also embarrassed about ringing my employer but suprisingly my manager has been really understanding.
Dont worry about what people will think of you being off. If you go to the docs later make sure you get a doctors note as that will help you at college and that will cover your time off. They will have to give you extra time to do work etc.
maybe also you should consider seeing a psychotherapist?

[mammo]

Don't be embarrassed, the school knows what it's all about.  They won't, and don't sit in judgement of you. Worry about getting yourself better, you don't need the added stress of worrying about what they will think.  It all goes into your personal file which isn't shared with anyone anyway.  Take care, I hope you get some relief.

[Alisonj29]

I agree dont be embarrassed but I do know where you are coming from. I started having attacks at 14 and my mom didnt understand at all. She was actually quite mean. But I have since learned thats just who she is.
Not everyone will understand why you feel the way you do, at the same time not everyone needs to know. Hang in there and I hope things get better for you. We here will always understand!!!

[snowyday479]

No need to feel embarrassed.  You are  not alone.  Believe me, many people have anxiety problems.  Some people just handle it better than others. You would be surprised to know how many people have anxiety around you and you would never know.  I thought I was alone when I first had an attack.  I soon learned that I was not alone.  I used to be embarrassed when I first got anxiety, but learning that others have this problem too makes it easier.  Cutting down on stress is helpful but what helped me was changing my diet.  First of all cut down on sugars and carbs.  Read labels.  Sugar does a number on your body.  i used to love sugary stuff and eat foods like that a lot.  Carbs turn into sugar so cut down on that too.  Also if you have a good health food store that carries whole food supplements, I would suggust you go there and ask for help.  They are usually knowledgeable and may possibly point you in the right direction.  Make sure they carry whole food supplements not the synthetic ones as sold in drug stores, supermarkets or stores like kmart or walmart.  Let us know how you are doing.  Hope this helps.