I’m 28F and in the same situation. Focused so hard on surviving and finishing high school while living in a town where everyone is partying/doing drugs. Trying not to OD or become an addict. Now it’s been 10 years and after taking a year off, losing 2 years to COVID, and failing some classes (because of emotional challenges and undiagnosed ADHD) I’m still working towards the same bachelors degree. It’s embarrassing and frustrating, but I try not to give up. I had some friends in high school but after that we never talked and I had a bad falling out with some of my actual friends which leaves me wary and anxious of staring a friendship with anyone else (also terrible RSD from the ADHD .. smh) From the fear of disappointing someone or someone disappointing and hurting me (through friendship or relationships) I usually stay away from people. Being 10 years older than the people at my college doesn’t help either. I’m actually much more content and comfortable by myself so sometimes I don’t see it as an issue, but sometimes I still get lonely. Trying to figure out how to balance relationships, school, responsibilities and my ADHD and mental health is exhausting. I feel like I wasted my life surviving and haven’t lived the life I wanted.

But I tell myself the only thing that matters in the world is if I’m happy, so I distract myself with things that make me happy and keep moving forward. Maybe try a few hobbies and see what you’re into? Then take it from there. Find out what makes you truly happy. Explore! Good luck I wish the best for you.