Mac,
The heck with those, I have lived in places where things can be like that, I won't go into details, but I can relate to the way you feel
But, hey, I say the hell with them, you know you are a better off, without these sort of people, also know though, like others have said, sometimes we think others that know sommething and even those who don't, about us, are thinking or looking at us in a way we feel awkward.
That is not always true, but we feel they are. For those of us who have situations like this need to convince ourselves that not everyone is concentrating on us and our personal stuff, it's just us feeling that way, so getting to a good point and dismissing this false belief rather soon or in time it is an accomplishment, don't put deadlines on when, either, take it in stride.
Sincerely,
DE