[Littleswan]

Im currently living in the Midwest. I feel so trapped and miserable here. Im extremely depressed. I've spent a very long time just holding on and trying to convince myself that if I wait long enough things will get better. Things haven't gotten better at all. I've had a lot of really hard times over the years. I just feel like im drowning in my small environment, I feel like I need something, anything, worth my happiness. I have no source of joy or excitement in my life, and it's been like that for a long time. I think I also have a lot of expectations about being young and how you're supposed to have the time of your life, and really live at my age. I think expectations are a large cause of unhappiness, but letting go of expectations is nearly impossible. My dad is from another country but has lived in the US since I was born. Hes also very depressed and wants to move back to his birthplace. I have a lot of extended family there and I think I would have a really good support system there. I don't have much family in the US. My parents both want to move there. I don't have much to stay for here in the US, but im so scared to move to a completely new place. Despite the fear I still get a little excited when I think of moving somewhere new. I don't think I can take my social circle and hometown anymore. I feel like the only way to escape, other than taking way too extreme measures, is to pack up and start over. Any thoughts or ideas on my situation? Tips? My mind still isn't completely made up. Thanks!

[puzzclar]

Family is a great support system, but they can be helpful through phones, if moving to a different country isn't what you choose. Ultimately where ever you go, we all here at PC are here for you. If I was in your situation, I think I would take the opportunity to have a new life, and see what you can do to create a life that you want. The other question is do you have enough fiances to move.

[Rohag]

Hello & Welcome, Littleswan. Does your situation permit an extended visit to your father's home country without committing to permanent relocation?

Even though you may feel like a stranger in a strange land in the American Midwest, you will probably experience a degree of culture shock in that other country. If you do visit or move there, try to learn as much as you can about its life and the sometimes rather subtle differences in the way people relate to one another there.