Trying to Start Fresh

I have this habit of constantly deleting things in an effort to "start fresh" - texts, photos, social media posts and accounts, emails. I feel like it gives me some sense of control that I don't feel like I have in any other aspect of my life. A few weeks ago I was having a really bad anxiety episode and ended up permanently deleting all of my photos off my laptop (mind you this was all the photos that I've ever taken or saved from birth up until now at 25 years old). It felt good for a few hours before I realized that all of my memories are gone. Not to mention that all of the social media accounts that I currently have are new so there aren't any old pictures on there that I could download. I know that even though I don't have the pictures anymore I still have the memories in my head, but it still makes me sad and I hate myself for getting rid of everything. I've tried countless ways of recovering my photos but nothing has worked. I don't know what to do anymore. I feel like my life is empty and meaningless.

[Frodm28]

I have this habit as well. It makes me feel like I’m having some sort of control when I feel my anxiety has been triggered. I’ve deleted entire social media/ internet accounts sometimes. You’re not alone. Honestly, I’m glad you came out and said this. Because I thought I was the only one.

[SongAndSoul]

I’ve done this too!

I couldn’t believe what I was reading.

I didn’t think anybody did this.

For me, I sometimes feel like a I’ve shared too much or I’m just sharing my “Kodak moments” and its phony.

I honestly think the answer is to form real-life-in-person relationships.

I think it’s a little OCD too, but that’s just my opinion.

[Hidden]

So there is good news for this. There are programs out that can get all that back for you. Maybe take you phone or laptop or wherever the photos were to someone. There is a way. Unfortunately the down side is it might cost you a little money. But memories aren't something you can put a pricetag on! Hope this helps a little and I hope you can get those back!

[Hidden]

And if you're tech savvy you might be able to swing it yourself

[shodan95]

Well we can't go back and undo things and that's just a part of life, unfortunately. My advise is to invest in a 1TB external Hard drive and back up your computer, including all files and pictures. This way you can always get upset and delete what's on your computer safely knowing that you have it backed up on your hard drive. You can also save memories on Google drive or drop box. Tons of cheap options. And don't worry...I've done this before too lol just didn't go as hard as you and delete everything. It's okay, just move forward and create safeguards for yourself for future moments