I think I'm a failure...

CurrySpice
Wed, 13 Aug 2008 12:17:15 +0000

I’m 80% sure that taking a semester off will not be a problem with insurance, but an entire year would be. Why don’t you call your insurance company and ask? That sounds like the best option at this point. HOWEVER, taking a semester off and not doing anything except therapy might make you more depressed.

I think you need to start applying for different sorts of jobs. You sound smart, but since you’re not outgoing, you shouldn’t apply for customer service jobs. What about something at a warehouse? My friend works at a music store filing all the music and she works mostly by herself. Are you strong? Physical labor (construction, landscaping, etc.) is great because it pays well AND builds endorphins (which make you happy!). What about working in a kitchen? My advice for your next job: enter with a smile and greet everyone. You don’t have to be their best friend, but you do need to learn how to work happily alongside of them.

What happened to those group therapy sessions? I think you’ll really love those, because you’ll meet other students (and even adults) who are going through the same situations as you.

I think that you need to sit down, and plan out your dream life. Think about exactly what you want to do in 20 years. I know that you want to be a “success” and be able to confidently explain your life plan. What do you like to do? Do you like computers? (IT is a lucrative field with independent workers). Do you like animals? (dog grooming might be fun, as is veterinary science although that requires strong science skills). What about library science? (strong reading skills required!). Is wealth important to you? What sorts of activities do you want to be involved in? (Speaking of which, you might want to think about joining clubs at your college to get more involved and develop some friendships). Are you looking for a husband (or a girlfriend)? Are you looking for a country or a city life? etc. etc. etc.

I think your main priorities right now are:

1. Getting psychiatric help and working through your depression

2. Figuring out a career path and finishing your schooling for it3

3. Earning money to move out of your house. I think a lot of your issues with your parents will be resolved when you assert your independence and move out.