I found that regardless of my surrounding circumstances, I either feel good or I do not feel good. It’s funny, because sometimes on the gloomiest days I feel good and on the brightest days I feel bad. I find that exercise to the point of exhaustion helps the most. I say, “keep moving.” I am in my late 40’s and make it a point to outperform men half my age. I do have back and joint problems, but I manage. After 25 yrs of SOF service, I have become a stalwart individual. I am constantly on the qui vive for diets that enhance mood. I found that consuming healthy ingredients mixed in a blender promotes a good mood. Mix spinach, soymilk, and cocoa powder in a blender for a good mood. I don’t mean to over simplify what you are trying to convey. Believe me, I sometimes look back on life and wonder what if? I can commiserate with you and hope that your life progresses down a prolific path. For me, at this point, health, money, and good weather are the ingredients for my satisfaction.