Greetings, esteemed questioner!
I extend my sincerest regards to you.
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to connect with you on Yixinli.
I would like to express my gratitude to the original poster for their initiative in self-awareness, which has led to the topic of discussion: "A 20-year-old man, with a best friend who is about to go abroad, is experiencing feelings of sadness and depression..."
A careful reading of the original poster's question revealed that, were I in her situation, I would likely experience a similar emotional state. The key lies in grasping the nature of the internal world involved. The topic that has been introduced may offer further avenues for exploring the answer that is sought.
I have also considered this topic and would like to present my reflections and thoughts for the questioner's reference.
In conclusion,
Let us first delineate the particulars of the circumstances as set forth by the questioner and then proceed to interpret and analyze them.
It was yet another episode of depression. For reasons that remain unclear, I recorded my distressing emotions at the time and attached QQ, before transmitting it to the campus confession wall.
This is how I became acquainted with her via the airwaves.
From the initial account presented by the questioner, two key terms emerge: "depression" and "attack."
Alternatively, has the questioner identified their depression and found ways to overcome it and manage it? It so happens that the campus "confession wall" has "connected with a good friend across space." Thus far, the idealized friend has become the "sustenance and heart medicine" in the questioner's heart.
I am uncertain of the number of occasions I have experienced a profound emotional distress, yet the empathetic, warm, inspiring, and healing interactions I have received from her have resonated profoundly within me and are unforgettable.
With her company, I was able to overcome depression on numerous occasions and gradually begin to break down the barriers that had previously isolated me. I developed a strong attachment to her.
(However, this is not in the context of a romantic relationship).
It can be described as a "miracle/opportunity." My friend across the airwaves, with her empathy, warmth, touching, and healing, has reached my heart. The questioner has repeatedly overcome depression, gradually opening the self-closing box and gradually forming an attachment in the heart. In other words, the "heart medicine" that heals the depression of the questioner?
Indeed, the essence of depression can be attributed to the repressed dreams and longings that reside within us. When an individual encounters a benevolent companion, they are able to fulfill their innermost desires, thereby experiencing a profound emotional catharsis and compensating for the deficiency in their object relations supply.
The school district has precluded any opportunity for an in-person encounter.
She is departing for overseas in July, and I mustered the courage to present her with my inaugural gift. She expressed considerable appreciation for it.
However, subsequent to our parting ways, I have consistently experienced a profound sense of disorientation. Might this be indicative of a fractured illusion? Could it be that I am ultimately destined to navigate the world in solitude?
Was I concerned that our friendship would not withstand the rigors of time? I believe this was a contributing factor, along with other considerations.
I was overcome with a sudden onset of depression. I was reluctant to confide in her. I frequently fantasize about a ideal partner who will consistently comprehend my needs and fulfill them.
Her image is also a contributing factor. I am a person who has lacked love and security since childhood, and my life prior to university was centered around academic pursuits.
— Despite never having met him, the individual in question has "taken root" in the questioner's heart and has become the "mind medicine" that heals his "depression." When I learned that my best friend was going to go abroad in July, I immediately fell into the emotions of "separation anxiety."
I empathize with the feelings, desires, and expectations expressed by the questioner, including sentiments of being "lost," "disillusioned," "facing it alone," and "fear of losing a good friend." These emotional expressions are authentic and genuine. They also represent a genuine internal dialogue, which I hope is a positive and constructive emotion that the questioner can embrace.
It can be postulated that the "shortcoming" in the questioner's heart is that "she/a close friend" has just become the most appropriate and perfect "fit/match." It is precisely because this is the "idealized object relationship" that the questioner is looking forward to that the questioner really does not want to "lose" it, so he feels the unbearable "separation anxiety" even more. At the same time, the questioner is also at the time when emotions and love sprout during adolescence, so it is normal to express such feelings/emotions. This is a normal emotional response and a reasonable need to express at this stage in the lives of boys and girls.
The questioner's reluctance to express his genuine feelings to his friends may be driven by an underlying fear of losing them. However, it is also plausible that this is a learned emotional coping mechanism, a result of his inner feelings being repressed.
From the limited information available, it is recommended that the questioner reflect on the potential triggering factors for their depressive episode. Identifying the underlying emotional needs may provide insight into the root cause of the depression.
Fortunately, the questioner already demonstrates self-awareness. By identifying and processing the underlying emotions triggered by the impending departure of a friend for studies abroad, it may be beneficial to explore one's intrinsic motivations for a comprehensive and effective approach to emotional healing.
I listened to a considerable number of graduation songs in solitude, experiencing a profound emotional response, and ultimately came to the realisation that I needed to develop the strength and resilience to become an independent and self-sufficient individual.
Listening to music alone and "nourishing" one's soul for strength is an effective method for the questioner to utilize in order to help herself. Once the questioner has experienced the cathartic release of tears, it is important for her to then allow herself to let go of her inner emotions and feelings. The act of shedding tears is, in fact, an expression of emotions.
The aspiration to become a self-sufficient individual represents a desire for personal transformation and marks the initial stage of psychological maturation. Emotional distress is a common experience during the process of maturation. The poster's insightful realization is commendable, and their efforts are worthy of encouragement.
In consideration of the circumstances presented by the questioner, an approach to addressing them might be as follows:
[1] Is it possible to accept one's past, one's genuine feelings and emotional expressions during an idealized emotional healing process, to understand the intricacies of this process, and to attempt to heal one's soul on one's own journey?
[2] Each individual must undergo the process of "individuation and separation" in order to mature independently and achieve personal growth. This is the only way for everyone to become stronger. Perhaps we previously lacked a secure enough "object relationship expression," but now we can attempt to compensate for the deficit. Just as the original poster has begun to mature independently, engaging in activities such as listening to music, talking, exercising, and playing sports can be beneficial for personal development.
[3] It is recommended that this positive emotion be cherished, that the narrative of healing be treasured, and that the expression of genuine feelings be facilitated in a timely manner, as timely expression is an effective method of releasing emotions. This may be a challenging topic to address, but it is crucial to do so in order to facilitate the flow of repressed emotions. One can express the beautiful stories and emotions in one's heart through written form, through audio recording, or through verbal expression. When the questioner expresses their emotions in their own way, this is also a form of self-healing, and it is therefore a worthwhile approach to try.
[4] With regard to self-expression, it is not inevitable that the relationship will end if the questioner discloses the truth about their feelings to a close friend. The underlying issue for the questioner may be a form of "separation anxiety," which manifests as a reluctance to confront their emotions directly. In such cases, it may be beneficial for the questioner to identify the underlying fear. Has the relationship irreversibly deteriorated since the close friend's departure for studies abroad?
Alternatively, could it be that the unfulfilled expectations in the questioner's imagination have become a form of psychological distress? Seeking guidance from a school psychologist or a trusted friend may be beneficial. Alternatively, when one opens their heart, it could be an indication of the courage to confront inner turmoil.
It is possible that, despite the physical distance between us, we are nevertheless close at heart. A remedy that fulfils a lifelong desire is not a mere fantasy.
[5] I would like to thank the original poster for their self-awareness and for taking the initiative to seek help on the Yi Psychology platform. I believe that this has already begun the road to self-healing from depression. Self-redemption, coupled with appropriate professional psychological counseling, will surely heal the "depressive mood" that we all have. First, it is essential to learn to manage one's emotions, and then to face the challenges that arise. This is an effective practice for self-growth.
I recommend three books for further reading: Embrace Your Depressive Moods, Let the Past Blow in the Wind, and Why Are Our Emotions Always Controlled by Others? I hope that through self-awareness, the questioner will gain a deeper understanding of himself, facilitate his healing, and become the person he aspires to be. I wish him the best of luck.
The above represents a synthesis of the question posed by the inquirer. It is offered as a personal opinion and is intended to stimulate further discussion and reflection. It is also hoped that it will inspire and assist the inquirer. Further, it is hoped that it will encourage more in-depth exchanges. It is ultimately hoped that the inquirer will soon "see the light at the end of the tunnel" and "the truth," which will enable them to enjoy their young and beautiful life with ease and happiness.
The preceding text is a response that combines the questioner's question. It can be regarded as my personal opinion. I hope it will attract more people to contribute and aim to bring about more thinking. I also hope to inspire and help the questioner
I am the source of illumination, the universe, and I extend my affection to you.
Comments
I can totally relate to the depth of your feelings. It's amazing how a simple act of sharing your pain could lead to such a profound connection. Her support has been a beacon in your struggle with depression, and even though it's not romantic, that bond you two share is incredibly powerful. Facing her departure, it's natural to feel lost; it feels like losing a part of yourself that had finally found some light. But remember, the strength she helped you uncover will stay with you, no matter where she goes.
The invisible thread between you seems so fragile now, yet it has already shown its strength by pulling you through tough times. Even if physical distance grows, the warmth and healing she brought into your life are imprinted within you. This period of sadness might just be another chapter in your journey towards becoming stronger. You've faced so much already, and this too shall pass. Trust in the growth you've experienced and believe that you're capable of facing the world again, maybe this time with a bit more courage.
Feeling lost after saying goodbye is completely understandable. It's as if the safe space you created together is now changing shape. Yet, every farewell carries the promise of new beginnings. The empathy and understanding she offered have changed you, and those changes are irreversible. As you stand on your own, remember that the fantasy of a perfect partner isn't what defines your worth. Your strength lies in your resilience and ability to open up despite the fear. Cherish the moments you've shared and let them fuel your journey forward.