Anxious about going to school

[Big_Heart]

Hi I’m 40 and diagnosed with social anxiety and many other illnesses but the thing is that I want to achieve in life and I figured going to school would be the best option.

the only problem is that I suffer with anxiety and I’m worried other class students will pick up on that. It really sucks having multiple diagnoses.

i have manic depression with psychotic symptoms borderline personality disorder traits clinical depression social anxiety and so on.

i really want to achieve but I’m worried people in the classroom will judge me and isolate me as a loser.

ive spoken to the school disability liaison officer and she said I can get someone in the class room to help but that will make it even more obvious that I gave an illness.

what do you think ?

[white knight]

Hi Big heart, welcome

Having multiple illnesses is a bother. I too have them. I had anxiety with panic attacks but conquered that 5 years ago. More on that later. Then I was diagnosed with bipolar, depression and dysthymia. Sometimes I don't know what illness is responsible for what issue.

I think a method of balance is required based on my challenges I've had over the years. By that I mean, resetting yourself regularly. If you feel overwhelmed by the classroom environment take a trip to the toilets or just excuse yourself for a few minutes and breathe in some air outside.

Being in the background in a classroom wont make things suspicious. Pick a seat at the back of the room so you don't feel like someone is spying on you.

There has been countless famous people with these similar challenges. Google "famous people with mental illnesses" , Churchill, Steven Fry, Van Gogh etc to name a few. In fact you might well have some natural talent from your illness.

Google

Topic: depression- is there any positive?- beyondblue

One essential ingredient to your approach is your mindset.

Topic: reversing mindsets- beyondblue

The ability and willingness to bounce back after a set back.

Don't expect others to understand.

Topic: they just don't get it, why?- beyondblue

I got over my anxiety. Here is how

Topic: how I eliminated anxiety- beyondblue

I hope that give you some hope into how to tackle some of your challenges. We are here if you choose to discuss things further.

All the best Tony WK

[Summer Rose]

Hi Big Heart. I think you might be comforted to know that many students suffer from mental health conditions and that you definitely won't be the only person in the class facing challenges. Many of the large learning institutions have Student Support Services I would check out everything on offer.

I would also develop a classroom "survival" plan. Could be letting the instructor know that you might need to take frequent short breaks and developing an understanding that he/she won't call attention to you entering and exiting the classroom. Maybe sitting at the back or by the door or both. Perhaps keeping a little ball of blu tac in your pocket or pencil case, so that you can fidget without drawing attention to yourself. How about identifying a safe place to go if you feel overwhlemed. Whatever works for you!

[quirkywords]

Bigheart

Thanks for your comment. Well done on returning to study.

Tony and summer rose have given helpful encouraging advice.

I returned to study as an external student at 40 so I did not have regular classes but I had workshops once or twice a year.

I feel that you other students in the class will have their issues and probably are worried about you.

Anxiety is common so there is a big chance that other students in your class will know what you are going through.

I need regular bathroom breaks so I always tell the tutor so they don't think I am leaving the class room and not coming back.

I feel people will congratulate you on your strength and confidence at returning to study.

Maybe see how you are at first and then if you need help you will know how the liaison officer can help you.

If you feel like it, let us know how you are going?

Quirky