What do you do when you’re feeling overwhelmed and/or fed-up with life?

[Headmassage]

Hi, I’m feeling overwhelmed.

I hate my job, I was signed off for a couple of months with stress. I returned at the start of the month, and then had annual leave for the last two weeks and I have extreme panic/sadness at the thought of returning tomorrow. I’ve felt this way since Friday.

I’ve had a few interviews which I’ve not been successful with, and have another later on this week.

I’m feeling down as I have no friends and I’m estranged from family by choice which amplifies this feeling of being forever solitary. I’ve always had close girlfriends throughout my life. My friendship group broke up last year and I haven’t really made new friends. Not through lack of trying. It just feels hard finding good new friends as an adult, and I’ve felt this on/off throughout my 20s. I’m 30 now.

I feel like I’m a young, attractive, vibrant lady wasting away without any friendships/relationships and I’m just fed up.

Has anyone else here been in this position? Can I hear your success stories of turning it around all on your own? Being 30, feeling stuck and alone and now you’re life is completely different or at least better?

I’m just fed up and could use some words of encouragement.

Bump

Sorry this got missed.

In the short-term I try and achieve something small. Like cleaning out a drawer or hanging clothes neatly. It gives me a small sense of regaining control.

Can you start a beginners class? Book something maybe for Jan. Dancing? Language? Something that’s nothing to do with your current life. And then go to it to learn a new skill. Not specifically to make friends. If that happens, it’s a bonus.

You are still really young still. My life had followed a slight different path. I had the relationship and kids but no real friends until my late twenties. And I only really felt I ‘belonged’ in my forties. My confidence grew and I felt strong and accepted. It was worth the wait.

There is more than one way to live a life. And yours is just starting x

I think lots of us have been there but often don’t talk about it. It’s tough.

I’d come at it from two angles. First, and harder, make a plan to make the bigger changes - new job, new interest or hobby group. This will take a while so patience and baby steps.

Secondly, do something everyday that you enjoy. Re-watch a favourite on TV, message a friend, get outside, paint your nails, exercise, put on music that makes you feel good.