Feeling isolated and frustrated with my classmates. (Just a little vent)
I’m a 17-year-old guy, and honestly, I can’t stand my classmates. The boys seem to have this outdated mindset about girls, and some even hold extreme views. The guy I had a thing with ended up choosing my ex-best friend/girlfriend – someone I’ve known since childhood – over me. It feels like I was only valued for my help with schoolwork. When I tried to tell her to treat people better, she cut ties with me. Plus, she didn’t like it when I spent time with other friends, which is just ridiculous. And now, he’s aligned himself with some pretty terrible beliefs!
I definitely feel like the odd one out because I’m attracted to both boys and girls.
The boys in my class are really frustrating, and while the girls aren’t as bad, I still don’t connect with them. A lot of them stopped talking to me after I broke up with my ex, even though they claimed to dislike her when she was around. I asked my friends about it—one can’t stand her and the other was friends with her—and they told me they had no answers.
I’m putting in so much effort. I maintain good grades, participate in extra activities for the subjects I enjoy, and I’m part of a punk band, which seems to go unnoticed. I take care of myself and work out regularly. I know I can be introverted, but I’m easy to talk to! It doesn’t make sense why they would choose to associate with someone who treated them poorly over me.
On the bright side, I’ve found a few amazing friends after the breakup who mean everything to me. I’m just feeling more lost about high school as time goes on, and I’m really tired of it all.
Thanks for reading this, and I appreciate any advice! D:
Hey there,
First of all, I want to say that I’m really sorry to hear you’re feeling this way. It sounds like you’re going through a tough time, and it’s completely okay to vent about it. High school can be a really challenging environment, especially when it seems like people are being so superficial and treating each other poorly.
It’s frustrating when it feels like friendships are based more on popularity or convenience rather than mutual respect. It’s hard to understand why people would choose to gravitate towards someone who treats others badly. But it’s important to remember that people often make choices based on their insecurities or the desire to fit in, and that says more about them than it does about you.
It’s clear that you have a lot to offer as a friend and that you’re doing your best to stay true to yourself. Being in a punk band and balancing school work is impressive and shows you have a passion that not everyone has. Keep focusing on what interests you and exploring what you love – those are qualities that will attract the right friends to you over time.
As for your current friendships, it’s great to hear you have found some people who value you for who you are. Cherish these connections, as they are what truly matter. Look for friends who appreciate your uniqueness and support you.
In the meantime, don’t hesitate to express your feelings—even if it’s just to a trusted adult or counselor. Sometimes talking to someone can help you process everything you’re feeling.
Lastly, remember that high school is just one phase of life. It might feel all-consuming right now, but things often change as you move forward. Hang in there, and keep being the awesome person you are! You’ve got this.