**Mother Shares Journey of Supporting Daughter’s Social Anxiety Post-Diabetes Diagnosis**
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Maygen Steed, a special needs teacher and mother from Texas, has taken to social media to share her experiences with her daughter Paisley, who has developed social anxiety following a type 1 diabetes diagnosis at the young age of just two. Paisley’s journey reflects the struggles many children face in social settings, particularly when compounded by health issues.
Recently, Maygen posted a heartfelt video of Paisley during her fifth birthday party, where the young girl appeared overwhelmed as her friends and family sang “Happy Birthday.” In the footage, Paisley searched for reassurance and found it in her mother’s supportive gaze. The touching moment resonated with many, quickly going viral with nearly one million views on TikTok. Maygen captioned the video, illustrating how she aims to be a safe space for her daughter in times of anxiety.
Reflecting on the impact of diabetes on her daughter, Maygen explained that the onset of social anxiety coincided with Paisley’s diagnosis. The devices used to manage her diabetes, such as the Dexcom and Omnipod, often attract the attention of curious peers, leaving Paisley feeling uncomfortable. Maygen noted, “Even in small gatherings, she is outgoing, but in larger groups, she becomes shy and anxious.”
The challenges Paisley faces are evident. Despite attending a small school for three years, she has never felt comfortable enough to take the stage to receive her diploma, opting instead to stay in the background during such events. Last year, after a period of distress, she was awarded her diploma in private rather than facing the public gaze.
Maygen recounted a recent Christmas performance, where Paisley, initially excited, became overwhelmed with stage fright. “She worked hard to memorise the songs, but by the end of the first song, she was in tears. I rushed to comfort her,” Maygen shared. These instances are not only a reflection of Paisley’s anxiety but also highlight the importance of understanding and compassion in parenting.
In navigating these challenges, Maygen chooses to refer to her daughter’s feelings as “nervousness” rather than anxiety, taking care not to label her experiences negatively. This deliberate choice forms part of her strategy in helping Paisley manage her emotions. “I ensure she knows it’s okay to communicate what she’s feeling,” she emphasised, adding that she tries to provide encouragement without pushing her daughter beyond her comfort zone.
Maygen is hopeful that Paisley may outgrow her social anxiety, but she remains committed to supporting her through it. She encourages her to engage in various activities, finding avenues where she can participate without the added stress of being in the spotlight. For instance, while she enjoys sports, Maygen has encouraged her to partake in gymnastics and golf, giving her a chance to shine without the pressure of performing in front of large crowds.
When witnessing Paisley experiencing anxiety during activities, Maygen employs a supportive approach. “If she gets nervous, we simply turn around, allowing her to feel less pressure,” she explains. This empathetic approach aims to help Paisley regain her confidence and enjoy the activities she loves.
Maygen’s insight into her daughter’s emotional needs exemplifies the importance of fostering a supportive environment where boundaries are respected. She compassionately stated, “If she doesn’t want everyone singing to her, I fully respect that. My goal is to ensure she feels safe and secure.”
In sharing her journey, Maygen hopes to inspire other parents who might be navigating similar challenges with their children. She believes that understanding, patience, and communication can play a vital role in helping children cope with emotional hurdles, particularly in social scenarios.
As Paisley continues to grow and navigate her feelings, Maygen remains a steadfast source of support—showing that with love and understanding, children can learn to face their fears and embrace their individuality.