Feeling lost after prison- looking for guidance
Hello everyone,
I’m 31 years old and I just got out of prison. Right now I feel lost — no job, no direction, and a lot of stress.
I’m not looking for money, just advice and support from people who understand psychology or life coaching, or anyone who has been through something similar.
Any guidance would mean a lot. Thank you.
@calmCity7978 Hello! "The first days are the hardest days, don't you worry anymore." OK, you can never again have any contact with any law enforcement. None. Zero. Next, do you still have a support network of people? Prison, through attrition over much time and stigma, decimates support networks. Assess who and what you have. You have proven tenacity. Can your network help you get indoors, clothed, and fed? These are questions to think about, not to post details about. As this is my first post, I do not yet know if direct messaging is a thing in 7cups. All of the information pertinent to your situation is very private. I would be glad to share all I know in a private conversation. Stay strong!
You are not on the yard. Before you leave the house, check your facial expression in a mirror. Soften your facial expression to match the environment you are in now.
Direct message me if you want to. Or, if 7cups allows. I am still figuring out how/if 7cups messaging works.
@placidNorth5654
Members can only talk to and reach out to a listener. Members cannot message each other directly , just talk here like this 🤗
@Amanda84
Members can however connect in group chatrooms like Member Community Room, Sharing, etc.
Hi calmCity,
Congratulations on your new lease on life. I can understand why you would have these feelings now that you are out, it's a completely different environment than being in prison.
Be gentle and extend some grace to yourself while you acclimate back into society. This is a big life transition you have just gone through, and it's going to take some time to find your feet again.
Being here on 7 cups is a great first start. Having community around you, whether it's virtual or in person can be a way to help you stay on the straight and narrow.
If you are looking for a direction I would ask myself "what matters to me?" Do you have an area of expertise or specific cause that you feel drawn to? Are there any employment services in your area that can help set you on a path to gaining employment or schooling to learn new skills?
Wishing you all the best while you navigate this new journey you are on. 😊
@calmCity7978
Hey man i just wanted to extend my best wishes to you.
Im not qualified but you can hit me up anytime if you want to chill or vent.
Ive not been in a situation like yours but i know what its like being on the comeback and i know how hard it is.
Stay strong and stay safe 🙏
I was on house arrest for 5 years. Not exactly the same I know but.. I recommend finding a therapist and then a job next. Being in therapy helped me maintain my job. I never liked therapy until I found better therapists, think of finding a therapist like you are the one interviewing them. If there’s no meaningful conversations or connection then try another therapist. A social worker might be good also. Best of luck!
And welcome home.
Public assistance programs might not be a bad idea. Something like EBT, SNAP, food stamps, whatever it is called where you are. Sorry, I don't have the typical guidance because I have lived through what you are going through.
It's weird when you are not continuing the last activity like everyone else around you who has been living their lives. if they don't need to know, don't tell them.
And hair. Change it from whatever it was when you were up the road.
You've done what you hated. Now do something you love. You got this!
Hi,
I am proud of you. You are strong and brave.
We are all here to support you.
Loads of hugs!
@calmCity7978
@calmCity7978
Hello, thank you for sharing this. Stepping into a new chapter after such a heavy experience can leave anyone feeling unsteady and unsure. It’s understandable to feel lost while trying to find your direction again.