[Socks77]

I am 17 and at highschool, and I am having a really hard time talking to people lately. I've never had a lot of friends, but at the moment I don't have anyone close and I feel so lonely.
I hate talking to people I don't know and trust, but I don't have that many people left now and I don't know what to do. I don't know how to just try befriend some else, or start up a conversation with someone I dont know, I feel too awkward.
How do I get through the awkwardness, and the moments when I just feel as though I've forgotten how to talk?
Please, some advice on how to cope with this, how to get through it for just one more year would be really helpful. I can't live with this loneliness, awkwardness and just usefulness.

[stern]

The first thing you need to do is to develop self confidence and it can't be developed just with few words. You need to work on it. Why do you want to talk to others? Concentrate on your studies, participate in lectures fully, own your individuality and behave like an independent person. Believe that you have got skills and prove your eligibility to others through your work. People would be attracted and they will rather approach you.
If you'll talk meaningless to others, they'll take you for granted and will never respect your sentiments. Most of the people goes behind the powerful and you've got this power just you need to explore it. The feeling of power is the only thing that can minimize your feelings of worthlesness and loneliness.

[hateeverything]

just go for it. i wish i was 17 again. i know it may not be easy, but you are going to get older and might regret it. not to put the pressure on but think of it like honestly you make nothing to loose. you already feel lonely and awkward. just take baby steps.

[mysunshine]

Hey, this is something I relate to as well. Socialising at school wasn't easy for a long time. It got a little better as I got into the last couple of years, when I started to come out of my shell a bit, but rarely felt totally comfortable with friends.

I'm just wondering if some therapy might help you get through this time, at least feeling like you had some support and talk to about things. Also help you gain some confidence in yourself that you are a worthwhile person with life experiences and things to offer others.

Hugs