[Celyn]

Hey there,

I moved your thread to Friends and Family because most of what you describe is how your family makes you feel rather than specific issues. This might also help to answer your question of whether it's you or your family.

It's unlikely that you have any learning issues, as you have graduated without any help, and if there were any issues there, it would've been picked up on earlier by teachers. The same goes for mental health issues too, which I'm assuming you would've mentioned in your post, if you thought you had any. What sticks out the most from your post is this:

But when my family is in the picture, I feel like they treat me as if I have a mental disability and can't do anything for myself.

How other people treat you, is a reflection of themselves, not you. You are not stupid at all, and I'm sorry that you are being made to feel this way.

There's a good chance that the put downs have made you feel insecure about your decision making abilities, and you may have low self-esteem because of doubting yourself. I think it might help to remember what you are good at, and all your positive qualities too.

I can see your logic for applying for waitress jobs, whilst waiting for something to come up in your field, and think that if it's something you are still interested in, then you should go for it.

Is it possible to talk to your family about how you feel you are being treated? Sometimes, it becomes a habit to put someone down and they might not realise how much it hurts you. It's good that you have been talking to a school counsellor and hope that it's been of some help to you. You might find it beneficial to continue with counselling as it can provide an emotional outlet for you.

Take care