Recently, I’ve been locked in for my finals examinatioms in polytechnic. I gave my 100% since it’s my finals. I’ve been staying up all night nighs for several days, doing my assignments. I realised my mental health was declining sharply. My mind was so fixated on my school work that it stresses me out. I felt extremely fatigue in those days.
Currently, I have completed the assignments, just awaiting for the results and final graduation certificate. It’s quite a joyous occassion to be in, but I realised I needed money to do anything which led me to realise that I need to find a job. I felt like it’s really daunting, to always work and always realising that there’s always a trial after trial.
My mental health is so bad that sometimes, I distance myself from my friends because of my social anxiety that has resurfaced. I’ve been feeling so empty and depressed every night.
Hey Daniel! You should be so proud of yourself after working so hard all these while, it’s definitely not an easy thing to accomplish so I really hope you don’t discredit yourself from all the hard work you’ve done. After reading this, I really admire your tenacity and drive especially while struggling with your mental health. That said, I can really hear the exhaustion in your words. You’ve been in survival mode for so long that now, instead of relief, it feels like a new weight is settling on your shoulders—thinking about money, job searching, and just the next step in life. It makes sense that your mental health has taken a hit. When you’re constantly moving from one stressor to the next, it can feel like there’s no real break.
Right now, your mind and body are probably still in recovery mode from all those sleepless nights and the pressure you’ve been under. It’s okay to feel drained. You’re not alone in this, even if it feels that way. Social anxiety making you distance yourself from friends is tough, but I promise, you don’t have to go through this alone. Maybe try to reconnect, even in small ways—just replying to a message or meeting one person at a time.
As for job searching, it is daunting, but you don’t have to figure everything out at once. It’s okay to take a breather before diving into the next big thing.
If you’re feeling empty and down every night, I really hope you can be kind to yourself. Even if it’s just doing one small thing that brings you comfort—listening to music, journaling, going for a walk, or watching a comfort show. And if things feel too heavy, please don’t hesitate to reach out to someone you trust or even seek professional support. You’ve already carried so much on your own, you don’t have to do everything alone.
Dear @Daniel_98
Thank you for reaching out. It sounds like you’ve been through a deeply intense period, giving your all for your finals while also dealing with the weight of uncertainty about the future. First of all, I just want to acknowledge how much effort you’ve put in—you’ve worked so hard, and that in itself is something to be proud of. It’s completely understandable that after such a demanding time, your mind and body are feeling drained.
The transition from school to the next phase—whether it’s work or further studies—can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like life just keeps throwing new challenges your way. But please know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many people go through similar struggles, and it’s okay to take a moment to breathe and process everything. You don’t have to figure it all out at once.
It’s also okay to feel anxious about job searching, but remember, you’re not expected to have everything perfect right away. You’re still learning, growing, and finding your way. If it helps, take small steps—maybe start with exploring job options or reaching out to someone for guidance. You don’t have to do it all at once.
And about distancing yourself from friends—I understand how social anxiety can make it hard to reach out, but please try not to isolate yourself completely. Even just a small interaction, like a message to a friend or a short walk outside, can help. You deserve support and connection, even when your mind tells you otherwise.
Please be kind to yourself. Rest if you need to. Seek support if you can—whether it’s from friends, family, or even professional help if it feels right. Your well-being is important, and you are more than just your achievements or responsibilities. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s enough. Keep going, one step at a time. You’re not alone and we are here to support you. 
@Daniel_98, it sounds like you’ve been through an incredibly intense period, and the toll it’s taken on your mental health is significant. The stress of finals, staying up all night, and the immense pressure to perform academically can be overwhelming. It’s completely natural to feel fatigue and a sharp decline in mental well-being after such a strenuous time. It’s important to acknowledge the effort and dedication you put into your studies, but equally important to recognize the impact it has had on you. Taking care of your mental health is crucial, and it’s okay to feel the way you’re feeling.
The transition from completing your assignments to now facing the daunting task of finding a job can feel like an endless cycle of challenges. It’s understandable that the anxiety and social pressures are resurfacing, making you feel isolated and empty. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and talk to someone about what you’re going through. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can offer a listening ear and understanding. You don’t have to face these trials alone, and there are resources you navigate through this difficult time. Your mental health and well-being are just as important as your academic and professional achievements.
For more information on mental well-being resources in the community, do visit https://www.imh.com.sg/CHAT/Get-Help/Pages/default.aspx