I seriously cannot deal with people who live in their own little bubble but still feel confident enough to judge others out loud. Like this one person who commented:
“Do secondary school kids even have anxiety? Like how? They have money, parents… what’s missing? Attention? Any clarification? I don’t get it.”
Exactly, you don’t get it, and that’s the problem. Just because you never experienced something, doesn’t mean it’s not real for someone else. Trauma doesn’t wait until you’re an adult paying bills and juggling life. Mental illness doesn’t come with a minimum age requirement.
And yes, I replied.
“I’ve had anxiety since I was a child because of an abusive parent. I only understood it when I got older. Turns out, so many parents are abusive, physically or mentally. People need to read more about psychology and early childhood development. Don’t let yourself grow into someone who lacks sensitivity and empathy.”
Because the truth is, a lot of kids grow up in homes that look fine on the outside, they have food, school uniforms, gadgets, but inside, they’re emotionally neglected, constantly stressed, or walking on eggshells. Abuse isn’t always bruises and belt marks. Sometimes, it’s the tone of voice, the silence and the control.
Not everything is visible. Some kids laugh, get straight As, and seem totally okay, while quietly battling a storm no one sees.
So before you type a “harmless question” that reeks of judgement, educate yourself. Read about trauma. Read about how kids develop emotionally. You’re an adult now, but don’t be a clueless one.