Posted 2/9/2017 3:37 AM (GMT 0)
Hi! I had the SAME problem. Generalized Anxiety Disorder caused me to drop out in the first two months of my sophomore year and it took six months to get my GED, mainly because I was too scared.
I never took classes, I just bough a GED review book from a local bookstore, it was like thirty - forty bucks or something but well worth it. The test itself was surprisingly easy. For me, it was a quiet room with about 4 people the first time. The first day I took English and Math, and then a few weeks later I took Social Studies and science, but you can take all four or just one, too. They make sure the room has a camera feed that is well monitored because of cheating so you're never COMPLETELY alone. They give you earbuds, and you do get a break. The test monitor is usually in a room right across the hall so if anything happens you can get up and step out, (explain to the monitor prior, so they know to expect it) I'm sure they won't fail you for having a panic attack. You ARE required to put your belongings and devices in a locker in a different room. The test itself is a walk in the park. They're practically handing diplomas out. They're really short and will probably only take you from thirty minutes to an hour for each subject. My best advice is to buy a book to study rather than taking classes. If you're in a class, you may find yourself worrying rather than paying attention. Also, make sure you do your absolute best. When I was in that chair, staring at my computer screen, all I could think about was how that screen held the key to my future, so it was hard for me to think about my anxiety. ONE MORE THING. I had a pocket in my jacket that I kept a teeny tiny action figure in. I carry him everywhere, even to my test, and every day of college. Maybe find something of a security blanket to fiddle with in your pocket. It helps more than you know. I wish you the best of luck! I'm 18 now with a license as a cosmetician and about to go to college AGAIN. If I can do it, I'm positive you can too! You won't regret pushing your limits, I promise!
P.S. you can get a doctors note that allows you to have more frequent breaks and perhaps more time to take the test because of your diagnosis! take advantage of that if you feel you need it, don't be ashamed!