Feeling Overwhelmed in Mainstream Education
I’m 14, trans, and autistic, currently in Year 9 in England. Unfortunately, I can’t manage in mainstream school due to bullying and challenges with my coursework.
For the past two terms (12 weeks), I was part of a learning support group called Jumpstart. Recently, though, I’ve been removed from that program and can’t return, which means I’m back in mainstream classes. I had grown accustomed to my half-day schedule and organized my routine around it, and now I have to adjust to attending school from 8 AM to 3 PM instead of 9 AM to 1:30 PM.
The anxiety I’m feeling is overwhelming—there have been moments when I thought I would be sick, and I struggle to communicate. With my attendance around 60%, I should be able to take a day off without repercussions, but my parents are not supportive of that. They think I’m making excuses, but I truly feel like I’m on the verge of collapsing, which is also exacerbating my POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome).
It’s really frustrating. I know someone who’s been in Jumpstart for nearly two years, and I can’t seem to stay even half that long, despite my medical issues. They don’t even want to be in that group, and it’s disheartening to see such a discrepancy.
On top of that, my dad accused me of being selfish when I reached out for help. I’m really struggling with these feelings right now; I don’t know if I’m wrong for feeling this way or for wanting to hurt myself. It’s all so difficult.
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It’s important to talk to someone who can help you, like a mental health professional or a trusted adult. You deserve support, especially with everything you’re going through. Your feelings are valid, and it’s not selfish to ask for help. Please take care of yourself and reach out to someone who can provide assistance. You don’t have to go through this alone.