I'm sorry to hear that you've been struggling with poor mental health and low self-esteem during your teenage years. It's completely understandable to feel sad or disappointed about missing out on certain experiences during that time. However, it's important to remember that it's never too late to work on improving your mental health and overall well-being.
Here are some steps you can take to help yourself get over these feelings:
Practice Self-Compassion: It's essential to be kind to yourself and recognize that everyone faces challenges and difficult periods in life. Acknowledge that you did the best you could with the resources and knowledge you had at the time.
Seek Professional Help: Consider reaching out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. Talking to a professional can provide you with valuable insights, coping strategies, and support to work through your feelings and build better mental health.
Set Realistic Expectations: Don't dwell on the past or compare yourself to others. Focus on the present and set realistic goals for your future. Remember that you have the power to shape your life moving forward.
Practice Mindfulness and Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote mindfulness and self-care, such as meditation, yoga, exercise, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies that bring you joy.
Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive and understanding friends or family members. Having a strong support network can make a significant difference in your journey towards healing.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Be aware of negative thought patterns and actively work on challenging them. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques can be helpful for identifying and changing negative thought patterns.
Focus on Personal Growth: Use this time to focus on personal growth and self-improvement. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress along the way.
Seek New Experiences: As you work on improving your mental health, try to engage in new experiences and activities that you might enjoy. It's never too late to explore new interests and hobbies.
Join Supportive Communities: Consider joining groups or communities where you can connect with others who share similar experiences or interests. Social support can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health.
Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a habit of gratitude by focusing on the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude can help shift your perspective and improve your overall outlook.
Remember that healing takes time, and it's okay to have setbacks along the way. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself the space to grow and heal. Reach out for help when you need it, and be proud of the progress you make, no matter how small it may seem. Your 20s can be a time of personal growth and transformation, and with dedication and support, you can create a fulfilling and happy life moving forward.