What can I do to change, given that I feel distant from God and unable to understand myself or those around me?

To change one's situation for the better, one must possess a strong will, sincere intention, and firm resolve, and take the necessary steps such as renewing repentance, abandoning vices, adopting virtues, staying away from bad company, and associating with the righteous, as affirmed by Allah's saying: "Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves" (Ar-Ra'd: 11). Seek help from Allah Almighty, increase your remembrance of Him and your supplications, and maintain the obligatory and supererogatory prayers. Remember that the purpose of our existence is to worship Allah alone: "And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me" (Adh-Dhāriyāt: 56). So, whoever follows Allah's guidance will have a tranquil heart and be happy in this world and the Hereafter, and whoever turns away from His remembrance will have a life of hardship: "Then whoever follows My guidance will not go astray nor suffer. But whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a difficult life" (Tā-Hā: 123-124). Seek help from Allah and do not despair: "Indeed, those who say, 'Our Lord is Allah,' and then remain steadfast – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], 'Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised'" (Fussilat: 30).