Right here my friend! Isn’t the food service industry fun? I’m in my mid-twenties but I know the feeling. I hate my job, it’s the main cause of my anxiety and depression, but I kept saying “next year for sure” or “if X happens one more time I’m done.” But that never happens because you’re beaten down and scared. I finally reached my breaking point and quit [two weeks left! Though my boss isn’t convinced, he keeps saying “I know you said February 5, but I’ve scheduled you until the 29.” He’s in for a surprise] if you have a better job, I say take a deep breath and take the plunge.

If you really want to go to school isn’t there a government program [student loan] you could apply for? I’m Canadian so I don’t know your post secondary education funding. You could also try messaging people in your desired field and see if you could intern or get some sort of small job in the office. Is there any online courses you could take? Idk about that specific field but I’ve found a few affordable online courses. One friend is doing one for accounting and just has to drive to the school for final exams.

Deep breathing helps my anxiety, mindfulness too. It’s hard to describe, but one day there was an ‘aha’ moment and I was able to control my anxiety, but the job I reached my limit which I don’t recommend waiting until then. It’s scary trying something new [I’m scared too with my plans] but I guess you should take the mindset that it’s better to take the risk. You’re miserable now, how could taking this better paying job be worse? Plus, you’ll look back on this moment one day, even if it was a bad idea [Which I don’t think you are making a bad decision] at least you tried and can have some story to tell. Good luck to you!