I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. Dealing with the fear of being ridiculed or judged by others can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to help overcome these feelings and improve your confidence. Here are some suggestions that may help:
Recognize your self-worth: Remind yourself that you are a valuable and unique individual. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, and it's okay to be imperfect. Focus on your positive qualities and achievements, and try not to define yourself solely based on others' opinions.
Challenge negative thoughts: When you catch yourself thinking that people are making fun of you, try to challenge these thoughts. Ask yourself if there is any concrete evidence for these beliefs or if they are just assumptions. Often, our minds can exaggerate negative perceptions and create scenarios that aren't accurate.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family members, or a therapist about how you're feeling. Opening up about your experiences can provide a different perspective and help you feel more understood and supported.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer to a friend. Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and it's okay to have bad days or feel vulnerable at times.
Focus on your interests: Engage in activities that you enjoy and that make you feel confident. Pursue hobbies or interests that give you a sense of accomplishment and help take your mind off any negative thoughts.
Start small: If going out feels overwhelming, try taking small steps to gradually expose yourself to social situations. For example, attend social gatherings with close friends or family members before venturing into larger groups.
Surround yourself with supportive people: Spend time with people who accept you for who you are and make you feel comfortable. Building a strong support network can make it easier to face social situations.
Practice positive affirmations: Affirmations can help rewire your thought patterns. Repeating positive statements about yourself regularly can help boost your self-esteem.
Seek professional help: If you find that these feelings are significantly impacting your daily life and well-being, consider seeking the guidance of a mental health professional. They can provide personalized strategies and support to help you cope with social anxiety and build confidence.
Remember that overcoming these feelings may take time and patience. Be gentle with yourself during this process and celebrate even the smallest steps forward. Gradually, you may find that you become more comfortable and confident in social situations.