25M | MBBS Grad | Feeling Stuck When It Comes to Dating & Connection

I'm a 25-year-old guy, recently completed my MBBS and currently working at a small hospital. I’d describe myself as more of an introvert, especially when it comes to approaching women. Honestly, with everything going on around us lately—and hearing stories from friends—I’ve developed this constant fear: "What if a girl I like thinks I’m just another creep if I send a follow request or try to start a convo?"

I talked to a few close friends about this, and they said one reason I might not be finding anyone is because of my girl best friend. We’re literally like siblings, but people around us seem to assume there’s something going on. That perception made things messy, and I ended up distancing myself from her. The hard part? We still work at the same hospital, and every time I see her now, it kinda hurts.

Now I don’t have anyone close in my life. I feel lonely as hell. And Instagram doesn’t help—keeps flooding me with those perfect-couple romantic reels. I act like it’s all cringe, laugh it off in public, but deep down... I want that too. I wish I had someone I could be that vulnerable and real with.

Didn’t expect to type this much, but I guess I just needed to rant. Would really appreciate hearing others' perspectives—especially if you’ve been through something similar.