Part 2/9:

Estom begins by describing her childhood as inherently shy, often retreating from social situations to avoid uncomfortable interactions. She shares an anecdote about hiding in closets at parties to dodge conversations, suggesting that even from a young age, she felt the weight of social expectations. However, it was during her transition to secondary school—a time of significant change—that her social anxiety escalated. The increased pressure to perform and engage in conversations made her feel as though she were "frozen in the headlights," unable to articulate even the simplest responses to direct questions.