Hi Anita,

Thank you so much for checking in on me—it truly means a lot. I also really appreciate how thoughtfully you responded. The way you broke things down into paragraphs helped me feel seen and gave my thoughts the space they needed.

Lately, it’s been overwhelming—especially with everything going on with both my mom and aunt. I feel like I’m constantly going in circles with the thoughts in my head, which isn’t healthy. Every time I try to start fresh with my healing, I end up feeling even more overwhelmed.

I’ve booked a session with a therapist, and I’m hoping we’re able to connect. It’s been years of trying to find the right fit, so I’m cautiously optimistic. Putting my thoughts and feelings into words—especially on paper—feels daunting, so I often avoid it altogether.

To cope, I’ve been keeping myself busy. I’m considering a career pivot into mental health, which feels both exciting and uncertain. I’ve been volunteering with local organizations and going through training, and I’m hoping this might be the light I’ve been searching for. At the same time, I’m trying to accept my mom and aunt as they are. It hasn’t been easy—there have been arguments and emotional setbacks—but I’m trying.

Despite all this, I still find myself falling into ruts. I struggle to address everything at once and to stay disciplined in doing the inner work. So, to answer your question—how am I doing? I feel stuck, lost, and honestly, not much different than before.

Everything feels like too much. Here’s a glimpse of what I’m navigating and why I’ve been avoiding it all:

A friend from out of town has been reaching out, echoing my frustrations with my mom and encouraging me to cut ties and start over in a new city. While I know he means well—he often says I’m like the daughter he never had—his messages feel overwhelming and controlling in their own way. I had to tell him that I need to make my own decisions, on my own terms.

A long-time friendship is on the verge of ending. I’ve realized that our connection feels surface-level and inauthentic. She recently got a promotion, and I didn’t feel the need to celebrate with her. Maybe it’s jealousy, or maybe it’s the pain of feeling unseen when I’m struggling. For now, I’ve paused our communication. I want to be honest with her, but I also know she may not take it well—and I don’t have the energy to manage her emotions right now.

My relationship with my partner is strained. He’s told me I’m abusive and that I yell during conversations. I know I haven’t made space for him, and I’m tired of carrying both our emotional loads. I’m aware that I’m jeopardizing our relationship, but right now, I feel like I need to focus on understanding myself and my family dynamics before I can show up for anyone else.

So here I am—back at square one. I don’t know where to begin or how to move forward in a positive way.

I hope you’re doing well, and thank you again for being there.