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Struggles with mental health

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.

176 replies

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In response to: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@rav3n, I have 2 weeks left to see out the rest of my notice period, though I was in the role for 3.5 yrs

I had initially planned on waking up at 6 in the morning to hike. Unfortunately, I woke up a bit late, but I found some time to hike on the northern outskirts.

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@Lowrida29 oh wow 3.5 years! are you close with the employees there?

at least you got up and still hiked later on! do you usually aim to catch sunrises, or just enjoy the hiking journey in general?

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@rav3n, I am just close to the members of my team, and a few people from other departments. I am afraid my reserved nature is costing me big time.

I am someone that wants to get stuff done before lunch time. So, hiking every weekend morning suits me better than hiking in the sunset.

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@Lowrida29 what makes you think your reserved nature is costing you?

sounds like you're a morning person! i wish i was more like that (unfortunately i'm night owl). if you ever take some sunrise pics on your next hike, please do share (only if you feel comfy, no pressure of course!) 😊

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@rav3n , I feel it's making me miss out on past networking opportunities. Also, I feel impatience to get a job quickly is contributing to the drive.

As a fellow night owl, I am trying to plan more morning hikes so that I can find some means of retreat. But, I will try to post some photos if the urge comes

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

@Lowrida29 ohh i see what you mean, totally valid that you feel you've missed some opportunities. i guess that networking is a skill of its own and those of us who are more reserved may need more practice (like myself too). but i also recall you working hard to apply for lots of roles and trying your best, which definitely counts for a lot. the impatience is hard to sit with!

oh wow you're a night owl that tries to get up at 6am to hike!? this is inspiring me to try something like that too... i'm usually a sunset person, but maybe catching some sunshine earlier on might be good for me. yes ofc, no pressure at all if you don't take pics 😊

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

Hey @Lowrida29 , I'm just catching up on how things are going for you.

It's great to hear how supportive your dad has been.

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

Hi @tyme,
I have got a couple of screening interviews in the next few days. But, I am really nervous about the technical interviews.
Furthermore, a distant relative reached out to discuss my career and other opportunities to consider.

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

All interviews can be nerve racking @Lowrida29 . I hear you on that one.

How I prepare myself is I remember that if the job is for me and they like how I am in the interview, then all good. But if not, that's also okay because I'd rather find out early than get the job and then struggle with their culture, expectations etc.

Glad to hear re your relative. It sounds like it's become a family support thing?

In response to: Re: Struggles with mental health

Re: Struggles with mental health

When things become desperate, all your evaluations of aligning with the values on a cultural lens get thrown out, @tyme. Furthermore, imposter syndrome kicks in for tools I have never used

On the second point, it was cool to talk to her after years. In the past, we used to visit her place for sleepovers and dinners
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