Mom... Dad... there's something I need to... um, talk about.
takes a deep breath Well, it's about... um, school. You know how I've always been a bit of a shy introvert, right?
Well, lately, it's been getting even harder for me to interact with my classmates. I feel like I'm just... invisible, you know?
It's because... because I've been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder.
What symptoms have you been experiencing?
looks down at her hands, tears welling up I've been having panic attacks before big tests, and sometimes I just can't bring myself to speak up in class.
And this has been going on for awhile now?
Yeah, it's been getting worse over the past few months. It's really been affecting my grades and my overall happiness.
Do you want me to talk to your teacher or something?
Um... thank you, but I think it would be better if I talked to my teacher directly. I want to learn how to manage my anxiety on my own.
Thank you for understanding, Mom and Dad. I'm going to make an appointment with my teacher tomorrow and see if they can offer any support.
smiles softly That's my brave girl. We'll support you no matter what, Em.
nods determinedly I'm going to do some research too, so I can find more ways to cope with my anxiety.
gives Emily a gentle hug We're proud of you, kiddo. Remember, you're never alone in this.
starts looking up resources online and reading articles about social anxiety disorder
Hey, if you ever need to talk or anything, I'm here, alright?
sits down with a notebook and starts jotting down notes and tips she finds online
Good luck, Em. Remember, you got this.
researches local support groups for social anxiety disorder and looks into therapy options
How about we start looking into therapy options together? It might help to have someone guide you through this process.
nods eagerly That sounds like a good idea. Let's find a therapist who specializes in social anxiety disorder.
Alright, let's get started then. What are your preferences? In-person or online therapy?
after researching, Emily finds a therapist specializing in social anxiety disorder who offers both in-person and online sessions
Any specific dates or times that work best for you?
crosses off unavailable dates and times, finally selecting a date and time that works for her This schedule looks good to me.
Got it. I'll book the appointment then. How do you feel about this progress so far?
takes a deep breath Honestly, I'm feeling a bit nervous about starting therapy. But I also feel hopeful that it will help me overcome my anxiety.
That's great to hear, Em. Remember, it's okay to be nervous. Therapy is a journey, and you're taking the first step towards healing.
grabs her phone and starts composing a text message to her best friend, confiding in them about her anxiety diagnosis and upcoming therapy
Alright, sweetheart. Just remember, I'm here for you every step of the way.
takes a deep breath and hits send on the text message Thanks for listening, Sarah. I'm hoping she'll understand and be supportive.
I'm sure she will, sweetheart. She cares about you deeply. Now, let's keep working on this schedule. There's still one empty slot available. Any preferences for that one?
thinks for a moment and then speaks softly Maybe we could find a therapist who offers group sessions.