Felt like a third wheel amongst a newer friend group.

I apologize ahead of time if this question isn't relevant enough for this subreddit but I figured since I am neurodivergent perhaps others would feel the same way as I do in this situation.

So back in December I took a trip out of my city to meet an online friend and her friend group for a convention that weekend. I primarily spent time with my online friend but there was one day out of that weekend that I met up with her and her friend group. I had a really good time. Everyone was very nice and I am glad I went. But after I would leave to go back to my hotel room I kept having these thoughts of "Man they're probably glad that I am gone so they can just hang out amongst themselves" or "They must have thought I was so awkward".

I feel like I am a bit socially awkward. But when I brought this up with my therapist she mentioned how she actually thought I was quite a skilled conversationalist and that I am putting too much pressure on myself when it comes to conversations. I know that just because my brain tells me something that it doesn't necessarily make it true but these thoughts of always being the third wheel or an inconvinience come up all of the time in social situations. Does anyone else feel this way as well? And if so how do you cope with it?

Sorry again if this question is a bit everywhere. I have a hard time explaining how I feel or what's going through my brain. Lol

Posted Feb 7, 2026, 11:03 PM UTC

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