how do you 'get over' missing out on so much

with me i missed out sadly on all the normal things people take for granted because i had mental problems and other misfortunes...so i missed out on ; meeting people, forming relationships, getting married...traveling, going to college, having fun with women...i missed out on most things you could think of and i'm now in my late 40s.

i did have a few flings with girls in my youth, so didn't altogether miss out.....but still missed out on a great deal.

firstly, how can i not feel bitter and angry that i missed out on so much? i can't get those years back...and 2ndly, how do i get over what i missed out on and not feel a sense of loss and sadness? how do i get over missing out on so much?

i have now lived in a flat for 20 years coping independently...but i have no friends anymore...i know no one...my only support system is my elderly parents who live far away now.

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Coralmist · 41-45, F

I feel the same, I've missed out on many normal and fun things for years due to PTSD and anxiety. I feel so sad but also mad too that I've missed a lot. But I think all we can do is say Ok this occurred, but, we just need to make small tweaks to experience new things. For me I get so nervous to do new things or even date, but I'm seeing a therapist to try to help me make some new changes. Have you tried therapy?

darkmere1983 · 46-50, M

@Coralmist thankyou for answering, i'm on the list to see another psychologist but i hear the waiting list is quite long...sorry for your struggles too.

Massageman · 70-79, M

@Coralmist You're right- you can't get that (time/opportunities) back. Make those tweaks - maybe increase their frequency and depth little by little. Reminds me of the movie "What about Bob?" and the "baby steps. There are so many things that regret not trying when I was younger and could do something about it. Better mentoring system would have been welcome back then.