I am a self-diagnosed “Aspergirl”. Basically, I take time to process outside information, experience confusion in social situations, and am very, very sensitive, much like other kids and adults with Asperger’s Syndrome. I’ve also suffered multiple mental health issues ever since I was very young.
I am currently staying with some relatives while my parents and siblings are out of town. I’m in a house full of little kids and their parents. Some of my relatives are very strict with their kids (much like my parents as I was growing up). My parents now are a lot more laid back than they used to be. But here with my relatives, I feel like I’m under scrutiny with everything. Even though I am technically not a kid anymore, I feel like I’m being scolded when one of the kids gets yelled at. My relatives are also very health-conscious, and after dinner today (which was quite honestly healthy and a balanced meal if you ask me!), my aunt claimed that she felt “disgusted” by her eating habits today. We didn’t have ANY sweets or even fried food. I don’t understand what the big deal is. I’ve always been sensitive, especially when it comes to food. Social anxiety makes it hard to eat in front of others. Also I was bullied in school about my eating habits and someone spread a rumor that I had an eating disorder. Eating outside of my home is a challenge in itself, but when people are super health-conscious and shame others (or themselves) for their eating habits.. it really affects me. I just don’t understand. And I feel uncomfortable and like crying… I wish I didn’t care what other people think.
CONSIDER THIS:
- It sounds like it has been very tough for you to deal with your mental health issues, especially from a very early age. It also sounds very uncomfortable dealing with your relatives and the things they say that come off as scolding or shaming.
- You may want to talk to a professional about these mental health issues you are experiencing, such as your self-diagnosed Aspergers or social anxiety. Talking to a psychologist or school counselor may reaffirm the self-diagnosis or provide you with more education about what is going on with you. They may also be able to help you with your feelings of discomfort in this particular situation with your family, or what is going on at school.
- If you think you can bring yourself to do it, it might also help you to talk with your aunt or other relatives about what is making you uncomfortable. The conversation may be difficult to have, but the possibility of relief it might bring if you are able to clear the air about how they are making you feel (especially if they don’t know they are making you uncomfortable) could be worth it.
- Bullying is never okay. You might consider reporting this to a teacher, school administrator, or school psychologist. Everyone deserves to feel comfortable at school.
HELP YOURSELF:
- Who might you be able to talk to about what is going on?
- How might seeing a professional help you cope with your feelings of discomfort?
- How might talking to your aunt directly help the situation?
- What are some things you like about yourself?
