How do I become motivated into going to school, getting a job, etc? Instead of staying in bed?

Dear Ave

Thank you for reaching out with your question via the BetterHelp platform.  I am truly sorry for what you are experiencing right now.  Lack of motivation and enthusiasm can have a huge impact on your life and I can see how difficult this can be for you right now.  From what you have told me it must be quite challenging for you to feel so discouraged yet at the same time be under pressure to carry on with your daily life/school etc.

You have mentioned that you are disappointed with yourself.  I am not sure why but being disappointed with yourself can lead to developing low self esteem.  You may start to doubt yourself about your abilities to do things and eventually lose interest in the things that you used to enjoy or be good at.

As you say, you feeling like this is not something that has happened overnight.  It has been slowly working its way into your life probably without you even realizing it. It is good that you have now started to recognize the pattern of your behavior.  Hopefully you will now consider taking some positive steps towards changing your life.

I would encourage you to take small steps that could lead you to increasing your motivation level.  For example, you can start by making a list of the things that you want to accomplish for the week.  Then break this into smaller manageable actions.  If you want to look for a job - then write down job search - you can then break it down to updating your CV and cover letter etc.  When you break down the list it makes it more doable and you will be encouraged to do it.  It is important to be kind and compassionate to yourself.  Once you complete a task you can even reward yourself with something that would make you feel happy.

It comes down to you changing your thinking pattern from negative to positive.  It comes down to you saying to yourself I can instead of I can't!  I am not at all saying this would be something easy to do.  It will be challenging but you can do it if you put your mind to it.

If you haven't already, I would also gently encourage you to look into having some therapy.  A therapist would guide you with making the necessary changes to your life.  Having therapy would also help you to lead a fulfilling life.

Wishing you all the very best for you future!

Best wishes

Rajitha