Answer: Is there a counselor at your school, or a teacher you trust enough to say to out loud, "I feel a lot of pressure to be perfect, and it scares me even to say this"?
A parent is the logical first choice, but also the hardest to "disappoint" - thus the suggested intermediate step.
Think of it as just telling one person, that's it, and even practice out loud so it doesn't sound strange when you hear yourself.
What to expect from someone in a helping profession? Compassion. I promise.
If you just can't bring yourself to do it - or if you're not confident there's an adult in your life who won't judge you - then please call the National Eating Disorders Association help line, 1-800-931-2237.
What you're feeling isn't uncommon. Most people have some fear they'll make a mistake and fall into the abyss. Find someone who your gut tells you will not judge you, and give this person a chance to help; talk to that teacher or coach, see the counselor, or make the call.
Question: I used to be a high-school teacher, and teachers would listen to your worries with compassion, concern, and nonjudgment. High school is hard. Almost every single student struggles with something - self-esteem, family issues, grade pressure, feelings of failure, etc. It is normal, and the teachers there want to help.
Answer: Agreed, thanks. Also shared, along with those struggles: the fear, unfounded, that everyone else seems not to be struggling.
E-mail Carolyn at tellme@washpost.com, or chat with her online at noon Fridays at www.washingtonpost.com.
