Depression advice?
I need some advice I’m almost 6 months into no nicotine, alcohol, and weed, and now 3 days of no porn. I decided to quit in order to see if these things were causing my depression. Nothing has changed I mean I’m not addicted to anything anymore honestly wasn’t even addicted to porn it was like maybe a weekly thing but that’s not really the point. I’m 19 years old I’ve done extremely well for myself I go to the gym everyday I’d say I’m pretty fit, I’ve worked my ass off since I was like 13 and now I make good money and live on my own, I have a gorgeous girlfriend that is good to me and she’s honestly my reason to keep going. I also have hobbies I love working out, golfing, making music, woodworking, and playing basketball. I’m grateful for everything and I know people would do anything to be in my position but I’m just not happy. I could never tell my girlfriend I want to be strong for her because she’s going through a lot and I don’t have anyone else to talk to about this. I feel like I have everything I want in life as far as hobbies and material things I don’t know what else I need like what would make me enjoy life more I’ve tried to slow down and not work so hard but when I have free time to myself I just get more depressed. The only thing I can think of that causes this could be loneliness ever since my grandpa died when I was 13 I’ve felt slightly lonely that man was everything to me, but idk I’m super independent I feel like having my girlfriend is enough even though we don’t see each other everyday we always are texting and calling because she’s my best friend and I love the shit out of her. Sorry this is long I’m just talking it feels nice to actually say how I feel I don’t even care if anyone reads this or not kinda feel better after just talking about my feelings but I mean if anyone has some advice I’d love to hear it because most people say working hard and not being lazy is the key to happiness but I’m the opposite of lazy Ive always been on my own and always been a go getter
Hey man, I know that this is pretty unusual to suggest on a forum like this, but consider therapy. There’s a lot of different kinds for all different situations, but it’s a therapists job to find the root of a problem and help you develop coping mechanisms and find resolve. Reaching out was a fantastic first step and you should be proud of that, and you should continue to reach outwards for the support you need. You need other people, nobody can fix all of their own issues alone. Anyways, I hope things get better for you mentally, you’ve put in a lot of work for yourself, something you should absolutely be proud of. Consider therapy, I know that people really push religion and seeking god, but that’s not for everyone, and it hasn’t been for me. I only say that because it can be super discouraging to ask for help and only be met with scripture and still not help from the people around you. The feeling of depression you are experiencing could also be very time of life, I don’t know how old you are but your brain develops heavily until you’re 25. it might just be the chemicals in your brain. Anyways this was long winded too sorry, hope any of this helped I wish there was a way to reach out to other community members easier.