<p>Hi, I'm 17 and I'll be a university freshman next year. So far, I've gotten into University of San Francisco, SF State, San Jose State, UC Merced, UC Riverside, UC Santa Cruz, UC Santa Barbra & UC Irvine. (Still waiting on LA & Berkley) anyway, I live about 40 minutes from USF and although I like the school, I'd prefer to go to UCSB because it's nicer and cheaper than a private school. The problem is, I have a HORRIFIC anxiety disorder and it's emphasis is mainly separation anxiety. Like when my parents leave the house, I'm pretty much nervous and anxious till they get back. If they don't pick up their phone, I freak out and cry hysterically...people who know me in real life don't even know I have this problem because I come off so normal but when I'm put into situations like that, I become crazily anxious and have horrible panic attacks to the point where I can't breathe. This is why I've been planning to go USF instead of UC Santa Barbra because it's close to home and I can drive back and forth..but if I to to UCSB, I'd be 7 hours away from my family and I'm not sure how that would help my problem. I'm definitely thinking of going to see a psychiatrist soon for therapy, but what the hell should I do in a situation like this?</p>
<p>(No hate comments. Anxiety is a serious disorder and I cannot control it as I would like to, so please don't judge my anxiety problem).</p>
<p>Wow, my sympathies. I was so glad to read that you were seeking help because it’s more than a college thing. It’s also a job thing and relationship thing. Learn to control it now and have a great future. Consider delaying college for a year while you’re leaning the coping skills. Better being a year late with coping skills than being on time and anxiety ridden.</p>
<p>@siliconvalleymom yes my parents are highly aware. I come off extremely normal to everyone, but I’m sensitive about being away from my parents because my anxiety disorder makes me think something bad will happen to them.</p>
<p>I’m glad you are getting help, but since you have to make a decision relatively soon, it sounds to me like you’d be better off either commuting to college or going to a school close to home. The transition to college is difficult for everyone, so it is important to put yourself in a situation where you have the greatest opportunity to succeed. Good luck.</p>
<p>Severe anxiety can be disabling. I can relate to your pain, and I’m so sorry. If you were my daughter, I would insist on USF. College is a big enough transition on its own. Adding distance and anxiety to that mix would be so much more difficult. Take those steps toward more independence, but don’t make the first steps enormous ones. And do see a psychiatrist/psychologist. Good luck!</p>
<p>You say you’re thinking of going to a psychiatrist - please make those phone calls today and get an appointment. Seeing a mental health professional can make a tremendous difference in how you cope with your anxiety. I agree with the others here. It just makes sense for you be close to home when you make the huge change from high school to college. But, as you work with a professional and go through your freshman year, you may find that you’re managing well, and eventually want to transfer to a school that’s farther from home. Wishing you luck!</p>