[QUOTE=seal;6303325]As a current college student myself, I can attest to the fact that you are certainly not the only one struggling to manage. A lot of young kids nowadays feel the pressure to 'do it all' while making it look easy which is often not the case so try not to be deceived/be too hard on yourself. I also struggle with low self-esteem, which can be tough to manage when you're constantly being tested/graded/pushed, it helps for me to focus on the small victories and remind myself that the only way to improve is to fail a few times.

Your age provides you with a unique perspective and different experiences that the younger students do not have, an advantage that I am sure will show through positively in your work if you embrace and allow it. It was a big and very important step when I realized that comparing my accomplishments and goals with those of the students around me was only discouraging me, but rather embracing my background and how far I have come makes me feel a bigger sense of accomplishment and the sense that all of my hard work is indeed paying off.

Best of luck

I make your words my words!
I'm also back to college and I'm 33yo. It's literally my first year and English isn't my first language. I'm a female, I have to pay for full tuition on top of all of my bills, food, and rent. In addition, major depression and recently I found out that I've developed some extreme anxiety. ALL the ODDS are against me. But like I do, use your age and wisdom as a weapon, a tool! And yes, young people are in a completely different state of mind, but so was you when you were young.

My strategy is to NEVER compare myself with others; everyone has a unique life trajectory and personality. If anything, you do have more experience and strength than these kids, so focus on succeeding and achieving your goals instead of 'fitting' in. Also, it's good to be humble and look for help. There are tutoring programs for everything, besides some awesome therapy treatments that may help you to cope with your feelings and develop skills.

After a long time, it's natural to feel 'lost', but trust me, it will go away and will pay off. Perseverance! Resuming academic studies is one of the greatest accomplishments that a person with a mood disorder can earn, and I'm really happy to hear that I'm not alone.

Hang in there. Be strong.