The effects of bullying can leave emotional scars that run deep into our psyche. Everyday I still carry those scars and I’m ever vigilant and weary of potential bullies. Those bullying experiences fuel my social anxiety. Some people say I should just get over it or let it go and focus on the present. I wish it was that easy. Even when I go out for a drive in my car I feel social anxiety. For example when I stop at the lights and a car is pulled up beside me I will fear being judged or ridiculed by the person. If I have my window down I will sometimes turn my music down because I fear being teased about the type of music I listen to.
My Journey 
The thing that has helped me get over my fear of being judged is accepting myself for who I am. I may be weird to others, but I love this weirdness, it makes me who I am. What I’ve come to realize is that people who constantly criticize and judge are suffering from some mental issue themselves. They want to constantly put others down. Don’t let them. They prey on your insecurities. Make sure that you show them that you are confident and that you accept who you are. Then that fear will vanish. (Speaking from personal experience.)
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It’s a work in progress to build my self-worth. I will get there one day. I know I need to be patient with myself and allow time to heal. Thank you for your kind message 🙂
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It is never “just that easy” to get over our traumas. Never. You are not alone in that feeling. I am so sorry for the experiences you have had.
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Thank you for your kind words 🙂
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Being subject to that kind of abuse is terrible. Its no wonder you feel scared. I read a lot on bullies and all bullies are frightened also they only bully you because you challenge them with something and when you can turn it around like that you see they are the one with the issue not you. That said fear when so deeply etched becomes so powerful. Sending you wishes and hopes you can overcome that pain they put into you. You never deserved it.
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Thank you so much for sharing this. I have had these thoughts since I was very young; I didn’t realize it was/is social anxiety.
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My fear of kids and teenagers is largely due to being bullied at that age More needs to be done to actually present it from happening in the first place
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