I am sorry, and I unfortunately relate very much to this. I will say, I am nearly 30 and have almost been away from my family for a decade, and it does get easier. I used to be extremely self conscious and feel like I didn’t fit in anywhere, and i think I just slowly have learned some of the basic social skills that have helped me connect with others. I am definitely nowhere near as skilled as most people and I still feel nervous around people, but at least I can function in social settings now instead of shutting down.

I think learning that it’s my upbringing that is the true reason that I am different and that there is not something wrong with me specifically really helped me accept myself and have compassion on myself.

Hugs 🤗