Feeling like a child in a scary world, even in your 30s, can be a common and valid emotional experience. Many factors can contribute to these feelings:
Uncertainty and Change: The world is constantly evolving, and navigating through life's uncertainties can be challenging. Rapid changes in technology, social dynamics, and global events can make it feel overwhelming, and it's natural to feel a sense of vulnerability and childlike uncertainty in response.
Childhood Trauma or Unresolved Issues: Past experiences from childhood, such as trauma, neglect, or unresolved emotional issues, can impact how you perceive and respond to the world as an adult. Unaddressed emotional wounds may resurface during stressful or unsettling times.
Comparison and Expectations: Comparing yourself to others or feeling pressure to achieve specific milestones by a certain age can contribute to feeling inadequate or childlike. Society's expectations can sometimes make you feel like you should have everything figured out, but it's important to remember that everyone's journey is different.
Anxiety and Stress: High levels of stress and anxiety can make you feel overwhelmed and less equipped to handle challenges, leading to a sense of vulnerability or powerlessness.
Imposter Syndrome: Feeling like you don't belong or that you're not competent enough can lead to feeling like a child in a grown-up world. Imposter syndrome can affect people at any age, making them doubt their abilities and achievements.
Lack of Control: Feeling like you have little control over your circumstances or the world around you can evoke feelings of helplessness or vulnerability, reminiscent of childhood experiences when adults held most of the control.
If you find yourself feeling like a child in a scary world and it's impacting your well-being or daily functioning, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. Therapy can help you explore and understand the underlying causes of these feelings and develop coping strategies to navigate through life more confidently.
Remember that it's okay to seek help and that many adults experience similar emotions. You don't have to go through it alone, and there are resources available to support you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth.