I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way. It's completely natural to feel sad and disappointed when an important event like your birthday goes unnoticed by those close to you. Here are some steps you can take to help cope with these feelings:
Allow yourself to feel: It's okay to acknowledge and experience your emotions. Give yourself permission to feel sad, as it's a normal part of being human.
Reach out to someone: Consider talking to a friend, family member, or someone you trust about how you're feeling. Sharing your emotions with someone can be comforting and provide a sense of support.
Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Don't be too hard on yourself for feeling sad. Remember that it's okay to have these emotions, and it doesn't diminish your worth.
Engage in self-care: Take care of yourself by engaging in activities that you enjoy and that make you feel good. This could be anything from hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature, or treating yourself to something special.
Practice mindfulness or meditation: These techniques can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions, and they can promote a sense of calm and inner peace.
Reflect on expectations: Consider if there were any specific expectations you had about your birthday that weren't met. Sometimes, adjusting our expectations can help us deal with disappointment.
Celebrate yourself: If others have forgotten your birthday, take the opportunity to do something nice for yourself. Treat yourself to a small celebration or a special activity that brings you joy.
Understand others' perspectives: While it's natural to feel hurt, try to understand that people can sometimes be forgetful or preoccupied with their own lives, and it may not have been intentional.
Reach out to your friends: If you feel comfortable doing so, you can gently let your friends know how you felt. They might not have been aware of the significance of the day for you.
Build new connections: If you find that your current circle of friends is not providing the support you need, consider seeking out new social groups or communities where you can meet like-minded people and forge new connections.
Remember, it's okay to seek professional help if you find that these feelings persist or become overwhelming. Speaking with a mental health professional can provide valuable support and guidance during difficult times. Take care of yourself, and remember that feelings of sadness are temporary and can be managed with time and support.