need some advice
hello, thanks for reading and taking your time to help.
I'm new to this app so im not 100% sure on how to work everything? but i know im posting on the anxiety and depression section, because thats what im currently going through. im 17 and living in the UK...
the past year ive felt myself becoming increasingly insecure and self-conscious, to the point where ill barely leave the house and fake being sick so i dont have to attend college. im insecure about my appearance and hate being around people but specifically; my height (im 5 foot 6), my odd looking mouth (i know this sounds weird but i have duck-like lips, or so ive been told for years) and the lack of facial hair (i have a thick moustache with several chin/neck/side burn hairs). all of my friends are a lot taller and have much more facial hair so it does play on my mind a lot that im lacking behind? i have pretty much finished puberty so theres no chance of growth lol but im becoming more and more loathing of my appearance and image. i now just lounge around my house and sleep as much as i can to just get away from the constant pain.
i just need some advice on what i can do to help solve these problems?
thanks for your time, have a good day and stay safe during this pandemic!
@modestTown6901
Hi Modest,
thanks for reaching out here, anyways!
Isolation is a particular danger for men, it is so bad for our mental health. The direct consequences for you will be to wreck your future, although I suspect you don't need me to state the obvious to you.
Ideally you would look for something to do which will put you in touch more directly with others who tend to isolate themselves - even they have something in common! Homeless shelter, that kind of thing.
I don't underestimate the difficulties for you.
@modestTown6901
First of all let me say how amazing you are for identifying how you feel and then having the ability to share it. Pat yourself on the back!! Way to go!! These are big steps for any human, at any age!! But, you are doing it at 17yrs of age. Impressive!!
Now, what to do about how you are feeling, and the results, isolation (not going to school, sleeping all the time), because of how you are feeling and thinking about yourself.
I'm certainly no expert, but I would suggest you need to take one step at a time. Either, you will stop isolating first and find people who support you for who you are, or you will change the way you feel about yourself first. Either way, the isolation and not going to school etc, and how you are feeling about yourself are connected and you need to stop that train!!
You are incontrol of you!! You are incontrol of how you love, honor, and respect yourself!
Work on the one thing that feels easier for you to manage first. Take one step at a time. Be kind to yourself!! Do things you love, find things you love, to do. Keep reaching out for help, professional if you need. Just get in the fight, to live the kind of loving and accepting life you deserve to have!! Best wishes. Here if you need..
