Struggles with mental health

Here’s a thoughtful, honest, and impactful message you can post on the SANE Forum, striking a balance between vulnerability, self-awareness, and your desire to be understood:

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Title: Struggling with Depth, Disconnection, and Emotional Exhaustion

Hi everyone,

I’ve been sitting with a lot of conflicting thoughts lately, and I wanted to share them here because I’m tired of being misunderstood or told to "just be positive." I’ve always been someone who feels things deeply—pain and frustration with life and status as a temp migrant. I have a strong inner world, and sometimes it feels like that makes me an outlier.

I’m surrounded by people who say they care, but I often feel like a miniscule group of people genuinely listens without trying to fix me or judge me. I cherish those rare friendships, but I also feel drained—mentally and emotionally—especially when I'm expected to be cheerful. I have been contemplating a job change, but the uncertainty surrounding my visa status is hurting my prospects.

I’m an introvert, I connect with dark music, and I’ve had a history of feeling like an outsider since I was born. Some days, I want to isolate and beat myself, while other days, I crave being heard without having to put on a mask.

I don’t know what this all adds up to—burnout, depression, existential fatigue? All I know is I feel emotionally raw, and I’m looking for a space where people won’t downplay that or tell me to just “look on the bright side.”

If you relate, or have any words, I’d really appreciate it. I’m not expecting a fix or a new job—just maybe a moment of human connection that feels real.

Thanks for reading and I hope you have a wonderful day/night.