Dating life is taking a toll on my mental health. Singles who are leading a fulfilling life, how do you do it?
Context
Have started seeing a therapist recently but am seeking some advice or just a listening ear here. Female in my 30s, have been single for the past few years.
While I don’t mind doing things (watching movies, eating out or shopping) on my own, I still desire very much for the emotional intimacy of a relationship.
Most of my friends are either married or very focused on their careers. For the past year, I’ve been on so many dates.
Been caught in a few situationships, met a couple of guys who were looking for something serious, and things seemed to go well until someone (usually them) ends things.
I’m able to get matches on dating apps every day and that led to me jumping from one guy to the next very quickly once something ends.
However this cycle of jumping and getting hurt so many times in the process has been hard on me emotionally, and I’m now completely drained.
I feel like I need a break from the apps, but my instinct is always to go in and swipe whenever I feel lonely.
Yesterday I went on a first date that I’ve been looking forward to but was so disappointed because he looked very different from his photos.
This morning I’ve also decided to stop replying to a guy I’ve been seeing for a couple of months because I felt like it was turning into a situationship again, which is really disappointing.
I just feel really down. I used to suffer from depression and suicidal thoughts, and recently the feeling is starting to creep back, which is why I went to see the therapist.
My work is fine, and I’m also taking a part time degree. I enjoy studying and learning but it has also contributed to the stress, and left me with very little time to pursue my own interests.