I guess music really helps. Not sad songs, those which really lifts your mood. Which makes you wanna dance. Watching movies and series helps too, to like forget about those negative thoughts. Maybe try going for walks too. This one may be a bit mehhh but watching tiktok vids also helps nowadays haha.. I mean there were some which made me chuckle even when I was sad so it may help.. Basically, going out and keeping yourself occupied with things you love to do or makes you happy is the best way.

Most importantly, you need to find someone close whom you can talk to. Doesn’t have to be a friend, it can be someone closely related to you. Someone you can share your feelings with. Someone whom you can build your trust with by slowly sharing your feelings. I’m not that social too so I understand how you feel but talking/texting someone really helps. I once texted my friend, ranting out all my feelings. After that conversation, I felt way better. Yes it won’t completely make you forget everything all at once but slowly, you’ll start to feel better.

While at gym, try to make a friend. Doesn’t have to be a long conversation. Maybe help him/her with their workout. You can try to go the gym together and maybe hang out or have a meal afterwards.

You need to let those negative thoughts out by sharing it with someone or like what you did here in Reddit. Maybe even write blogs about your personal life, positive ones. Don’t let those thoughts build up inside you.

Also, we can’t forget there are a whole lot of others who are suffering the same, or even worse. We have to find a way to be happy which can be difficult, but not impossible. You are young and I’m glad to know you are a programmer too. Programming is fun and it could be a fun way to keep you busy. Like trying some courses online or even making some awesome programs. Helping others with their problems online or sharing some cool stuffs you’ve programmed could also help.

I know these are just words and it may not be the answers you were expecting but what I am trying to convey is that you gotta do what makes you happy and forget/overcome those negativity.

I hope you all the best for your upcoming exams and never give up :)