Am I Normal? Feeling Like A Kid at 18

It's not uncommon to feel like a kid or teenager even as an 18-year-old. You might have experienced moments where you question your readiness to be an adult, and during your 18th birthday, your parents even celebrated your transition to adulthood with a fancy dinner. But you found yourself having a complete meltdown, sensing that you're not ready to step into your adult role fully.

Are These Feelings Normal?

Many individuals share your sentiment that 18 still feels like a time when they're more of a kid than an adult. It's important to remember that everyone has their unique timeline for coming of age. Some 18-year-olds might feel ready to face the challenges of adulthood, while others, like you, may feel overwhelmed and want to stay in a mental space where they feel safe and comfortable.

Take Your Time Growing Up

Taking it slow and gradually learning to be an adult is a healthy approach. Start by doing tasks on your own and seek advice when needed. Your mentors and peers will appreciate your openness and willingness to listen to their guidance. As you practice, it becomes less daunting, and you'll start to build a solid foundation for adulthood.

Similarly, there are adults in your social circle who might still exhibit childlike behaviors. My 50ish friend, for example, often acts like a 8-year-old, and it's genuinely amusing. It's essential to see such behavior as a part of life, rather than a sign of immaturity.

Why Do We Feel This Way?

Your feelings of not being ready to be an adult stem from a natural process of regression. Regression is a concept that describes how individuals, particularly teens and adults, might revert to earlier stages of development, especially in emotionally distressing times. This is a normal part of human psychology, and there's nothing wrong with you for feeling like this.

Regression in Adults

It's not surprising that a 41-year-old might still feel like a kid. Development and growth are ongoing processes, and it's natural to have different stages and feelings about them. Just because you feel like a kid doesn't mean you're not a grown-up. Embrace your feelings and find joy in the things that bring you happiness, just like I do as a 57-year-old who behaves in ways that seem young.

Many adults, even those much older than 25, still grapple with the idea of reaching adulthood. The notion that you must suddenly behave and think like a grown-up at the age of 18 can be overwhelming. You're not alone in feeling this way, and it's an entirely valid experience. Embrace the stage you're in without pressure to rush into adulthood without fully being ready.

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