How Can I Handle the Stress I Feel in My Life?

Dear eNotAlone: I feel like I'm at a loss. I feel confused and worried, and I can't get my head around what to do. Sometimes I just don't know who to turn to for help.

I'm in my mid-30s now and I still feel like a total mess. I have so many problems that I can't seem to solve. I haven't been able to maintain a stable job for more than a few months at a time. My relationships always end up in disaster, no matter how hard I try to make them work. My family just tells me it's all my fault and that I'm the one who has to change.

When it comes to my mental health, I feel like it's on a roller coaster. Some days I'm fine and the next I just fall into a deep depression with no end in sight. I don't know how to stop it or how to make it go away. Every time I try to talk to someone about it, they just tell me that I need to just ‘get over it' and move on with my life.

I don't know what to do. I feel like my life is out of control and I'm just trying to keep my head above water. I'm scared and I don't know where to turn. Please, can you give me some advice on how to handle the situation?

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It sounds like you're really struggling, and it's important that you take the time you need to take care of yourself. You may be feeling overwhelmed by all of the issues you're facing and it's understandable that you don't know where to start or what to do.

First and foremost, it's important to focus on taking care of your mental health. Depression can be crippling and it's so important that you reach out to a mental health professional to get the help you need. Therapy can be a great way to process your emotions and learn how to manage them in healthy and effective ways. If necessary, medication can also be part of an effective treatment plan.

You also want to make sure you're connecting with a strong support system. Turning to family and friends, or even seeking out professional support groups, can be a great way to get the encouragement you need. Having this type of supportive network can be especially helpful during times of difficulty, as it can provide you with the understanding and compassion you need to get through.

It's essential to focus on self-care, particularly when dealing with overwhelming stress and anxiety. This can include everything from exercising regularly, eating nutritious food, getting enough sleep, and taking breaks when you need to. It's also important to remember to do the things that make you feel good, such as listing to music, reading a book, or talking a walk. Taking the time to practice self-care can be beneficial for your overall wellbeing.

It's understandable that you feel overwhelmed and frustrated. But, with the right help, it is possible to find peace and serenity. Seek out support from family, friends, and mental health professionals to show yourself the love and care you need.