🏫 The Middle School Year
When did you first realize this year was going to feel different than you expected?
The third day of school, when the headaches started and I felt unsettled.
What does anxiety usually say at school?
You don’t fit here.
What is something mature about how you handled this year?
I didn’t quit even when it was hard.
What does your mom do that helps most?
She listens without judging and reassures me.
What did getting accepted to high school mean to you?
Relief and validation.
What was going through your mind when the headaches began?
Something might be wrong, and I don’t want to feel like this all year.
What do you say back to your anxiety to get through the year?
This is temporary.
What do people underestimate about you?
How deeply I think and reflect.
Where do you feel most like yourself?
At home or with people who already know me well.
What does high school represent?
A fresh start.
What has been the hardest part of this transition?
Feeling like I don’t fully belong yet.
When is anxiety the loudest at school?
In social situations when I start overthinking.
classes
What strength do you use naturally?
Perspective — reminding myself this isn’t forever.
What makes it easier for you to trust someone?
Consistency and feeling understood.
What energy do you want to walk in with next year?
Confidence and openness.
What has stretched you the most this year?
Showing up every day even when I felt uncomfortable.
When is the anxiety quieter?
When I’m focused on something I’m good at or thinking about high school.
What keeps you steady on hard days?
My mom, my faith, and knowing high school is coming.
What kind of friend are you when you feel secure?
Loyal, thoughtful, and supportive.
What are you leaving behind from this year?
The belief that I don’t fit in.
How are you different now than you were in August?
I’m more aware of my emotions and more patient with change.
. What is anxiety really afraid of?
Being left out or misunderstood.
What has this year revealed about you?
I’m more resilient than I realized.
What support do you wish people gave more naturally?
Reassurance that I belong.
What has surprised you about yourself?
I can handle discomfort better than I thought.