Ask Amy: Overwhelmed man wants to withdraw
Maybe I've just become super judgmental. I'm letting these friendships and relationships go because I feel like I can't deal with them — or don't want to be bothered.
It's to the point where any little thing can get you on my no-friend list now.
I suppose it is neurotic, but I’m just not sure how to turn the tiller.
It's even affecting my family.
Obviously, I suffer from some anxiety and depression, but I don't feel like they've taken over my life.
I just don't want to hang out anymore. I feel like I should want to, but I just don't.
– Struggling Dude in the Midwest
Dear Struggling: First, take a very deep breath. You have experienced extremely stressful life changes during the last year. Starting a business and having a baby are two events that are bound to profoundly affect how you spend your time.
However, based on what you report, I would say that your anxiety and depression are dominating your life.
Your hair-trigger anger is alarming, and you are perceptive to see this change in your temperament as a definite cause for concern. It’s time to take this seriously; start with a visit to your GP; seek a referral to a therapist.
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