SAM, age 20

I struggled socially throughout high school, trying to get people to like me but then just ended up annoying them. I forced myself into their conversations and groups, even if they asked me to leave.

I would do it on purpose so they would do something mean to me so it could be their fault.

I told myself, I was just trying to be nice.

I had a lot of help from my parents, doctors and therapists but I didn’t listen.

I thought everyone else was judging me and I didn’t need help.

This went on until I could not hide the truth, I needed help building social skills and work with my therapist. I started using the coping skills and “I” statements.

It helped and I started making friends and being involved in a better way. It made living life easier. I’m in my 2nd year at college now.