I totally understand that Casey, and have been through that myself. I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but it’s got to start with you being OK with who you are. People perceive, whether consciously or subconsciously, when you try to hold back or cover up your true self. They sense something false there. So ironically trying to “not” be yourself makes even harder to connect with others.

There are lot of people in this world, and I wholeheartedly believe there are many, many people who will like and befriend you for exactly who you are. It took me a long time and I totally get the struggle. I encourage you to be yourself, ignore those who don’t accept that and keep searching for those who do. They are out there!