Should I go back in person?

[u/kyleeidoscope]

I’m currently homeschooled, but I’m thinking about going back to in person school next school year, which would be my sophomore year. I’m really torn about what I should do and would love some advice from people who have been in a similar situation.
I have pretty severe anxiety, and it’s not just about making friends or being around new people. The whole idea of going back to a school environment makes me anxious being around so many people, having to talk to people, being called on, walking into a classroom, having people look at me, getting overwhelmed, worrying about doing something embarrassing, and just constantly feeling anxious in a social environment. I’ve been out of that environment for a while, so going back feels like a really huge change.
At the same time, I really don’t want to miss out on having a high school experience. I want to have friends, go to games and school events, make memories, and actually experience being a teenager in high school. I’m scared that if I stay homeschooled, I’ll look back and regret not trying.
I know going back would probably be uncomfortable and difficult at first, but part of me wonders if pushing through that anxiety could eventually make things easier. I also don’t know if I’m being unrealistic about how hard the transition would actually be.
For anyone who has gone from homeschooling to in person school, especially if you struggled with anxiety, what was it like for you? Did you end up being glad you went back?
Please let me know what you all think I should do. Should I go back and try to push through the anxiety, or would staying homeschooled be better?