38 and feel down all the time

@compassionateCamp040588

Dear Author,

What you’re going through are all real problems—problems of your generation, of today’s society, yours, and ours as well. Many people can relate to you, myself included, which is why I’m writing. Above all else, what matters most is honesty. You’ve been honest with yourself, and your wife’s understanding will mean more than anyone else’s words. You can be vulnerable, you can be tired, and you can be human—allow yourself to be all of these things. And allow her, too, to reconnect with you. Listen to her as well. There are no expectations, just judgment-free attention. Your son doesn’t see the stress in you—he sees his father, his role model, whom he loves unconditionally. Don’t let negative thoughts take over your presence. Name it. It could be Joe or a movie character you don’t like. When it comes, grab it, laugh it off, and send it away before it decides for you. You’re in control, and you can convince yourself of this in small steps. Make a decision. For example, go get some ice cream. Or do some exercise, without your phone. Just for the sake of being active. For the joy of physical sensations. For the feeling it will give you afterward. When your brain gets overloaded, you can release that energy through creativity or physical activity. There’s a Hungarian saying: “Your appetite comes with eating.” Just go for it. And give the transition time. Small steps, repetition, tiny successes, and celebrating them.

Fear related to work is real. The world is changing too quickly; it’s unpredictable, fragile, and anxiety-inducing. If people trusted their surroundings, you could share these feelings with your colleagues as well. Because that little bit of worry is there in everyone. Unfortunately, this characterizes the current job market. It’s hard to prepare for it or even face it head-on, but what you can build is resilience. Mental resilience means turning difficult times into opportunities for learning and growth: take care of yourself (body, mind, and health), set realistic goals, and stay focused on what you can influence. Write a list of these things, name your feelings, and list your positive qualities so you can see your self-image more realistically. Feel free to ask others about this, too. Asking for help isn’t something to be ashamed of; it’s the foundation of connection and a space for sharing human values. Dare to be yourself, dare to listen to what you need, and no matter how difficult it may be, connect with the present moment and your surroundings rather than with the virtual world. Think about what truly recharges you. Is it sunlight? A walk? Trying out a new recipe? Fixing something? You can start with what’s easily accessible—that way, you’ll get feedback quickly.