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Feeling Overwhelmed and Left Out

I’ve been feeling guilty being at home while trying to find work, especially when I see others working or studying. It’s hard not to compare myself, and even though I am trying, it feels like I’m not doing enough. The guilt hits hardest during the day, and while I do volunteer once a week, the lack of routine makes it worse. I know getting a job would help with purpose, confidence, and stability, but the journey feels tough. I’ve been stuck in this situation since 2022, and it’s left me feeling hopeless and alone. I’ve looked at options and tried, but nothing has worked out yet. It’s overwhelming when people make comments or point out that I’m doing “nothing” when they don’t understand the effort I’ve put in.
On top of that, my friendships haven’t felt supportive either. A couple of friends have ignored me lately, and while I get that people have their own issues, it still hurts especially when I ask a question or try to start a conversation. I talk about cars a lot, and if one of them’s fed up with that, I’d rather they just say so. It only takes a second to reply or say they need space. Being ignored without explanation really affects someone like me who overthinks, especially when I’m already feeling low. I hate being made to feel like the bad guy when all I want is communication. When you’re already overwhelmed with job hunting and mental pressure, having long-time friends go quiet just makes it all harder. I'm really sorry for being a broken record please allow me, I know soon things will improve and I'll get sorted but action speaks louder that words.
On top of that, my friendships haven’t felt supportive either. A couple of friends have ignored me lately, and while I get that people have their own issues, it still hurts especially when I ask a question or try to start a conversation. I talk about cars a lot, and if one of them’s fed up with that, I’d rather they just say so. It only takes a second to reply or say they need space. Being ignored without explanation really affects someone like me who overthinks, especially when I’m already feeling low. I hate being made to feel like the bad guy when all I want is communication. When you’re already overwhelmed with job hunting and mental pressure, having long-time friends go quiet just makes it all harder. I'm really sorry for being a broken record please allow me, I know soon things will improve and I'll get sorted but action speaks louder that words.
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Comments
Just wanted to say first of all, it’s okay that such issues continue to affect you, and you’re free to seek support on them as often as you like – it’s why we are here. It can be challenging when your brain starts to compare yourself to others and feel like you aren’t doing enough compared to those around you, especially when other people make unhelpful comments on it too. But what I can say is we all here definitely see your motivation and determination to make progress in your journey and it is admirable to see. So try not to let the opinions of others dishearten you.
It can add additional pressure and negative thoughts when it feels like the people you are close to aren’t giving you the support and encouragement you need and you feel a distance forming between you and them. You definitely aren’t the bad guy for wanting communication – it is a reasonable thing to expect from those who care about you.
As challenging as it may feel sometimes, try not to let the opinions of others deter you from your goals, and keep moving forwards. You’ve got this and we are all proud of you!!!
Sending hugs
Sinead
Thank you so much @sinead276 so so kind of you, hope you're well ❤️