The Real World myth

A lot of people have told me I'm not in the "real world" and I don't know what it is. That I won't be ready for it. While it's true I'd like to do more than just stay at home, I feel like The Real World is a bit of a sham. If I'm not in the real world where am I? It's not encouraging or motivating just disenheartening.

Once I get a job and/or go to college will my problems magically disappear? I might feel better about myself but there's not going to be a huge radical change. I'll still be the same person. And my mental illness will still be with me too. Plus I'll have more stressors related to money, debt, etc etc. Is this really ideal?

The Real World is a myth. By purporting it as something Scary and massive and full of responsibility makes it feel even more inaccessible. It's counterintuitive. I want to drop it entirely. I'm in the real world now, just struggling with things other people never think of. One day my position in the world will change. But I'm still a part of it. To be told otherwise is hurtful and alienating.

I understand how you feel I think by real world, people mean places where you have to socially interact.. such as work, ecc. lots of people don't understand the struggle of a mental illness, which can be a lot more dangerous of the "real world" unfortunately

I feel the same way you for the most part, but you have to remember there are a whole lot of things about the "real world" that is really positive as well. While we are busy in the negative we tend to forget the good things too. I wish you well on your journey and being bipolar I know all about the struggle, so at least you're not alone.

I really don't like the term "The Real World", because in my experience it means people referring to some horribly demoralizing place where life is 100% mere obligation, people pleasing, groupthink, and watching one's aspirations quietly buried without much fanfare. Who the heck would want THAT mess to be the "real world"?!

I can only assume that this usage of the term is a rationalization defense used by the cynical, nihilistic, bitter, and terminally discouraged. I really don't want to buy into the "reality" they are selling - I'm depressed enough as it is!

So much this!! Don't forget the "real world" is also hyperconfrontational and violent, where everyone's out to get you and you are completely unprotected unless you can fight your way out of things or handle brutal mental abuse without flinching!