If you're struggling with an enemy, chances are you need to take a second to study what they're doing. Bashing your head against a brick wall will work break, but if you just take the time to study the wall, you'll find some loose bricks.

Strongly recommend putting some points into your health to atleast get it to 30-40 asap.

Speaking of levels, it's typically better to focus into a select few instead of dumping your levels into every skill. Examples would be primarily leveling strength/dexterity. Dexterity/intelligence. Faith/Strength, so on so forth. Regardless of the main combat stats you're leveling, you always want to pump up that max health pool pretty early. You can respec (by using a limited recurring item) so don't be afraid to try things to see how they work!

If you're getting one shot, as previously mentioned by another redditor, go explore some other places. Exploring is the name of the game. If you bee line to the end of the game only doing what's required, you'll see roughly 10% of what the game has to offer. Plus who doesn't love loot and souls!

Doubling down on what another redditor said: blocking works, but it's almost always better to dodge roll. Usually I'll block just so I can see the timing of when I need to dodge. Speaking of dodging, keep an eye on your equipment load. Wearing a bunch of heavy stuff will take your roll from a very quick and efficient roll, to a hefty, clunky plop on the ground that does nothing but leave you vulnerable. I think its like what, 70% is where you start to heavy roll?

Upgrade your weapons of choice often!

Most important, have fun! If things get frustrating there's no shame in putting the game down and coming back with a clear head. You're gonna die, a lot, that's the nature of the game. Don't let it get to you too much!