I just realized you had just 2 years of experience and are disappointed that you seemingly had more opportunities at 22 without a degree that at 26+ with one. Your self portrayal made me think of someone with ample experience.

I see how, if you're not a certain age with a certain amount of experience, you may find people being unnecessarily dismissive.

I understand the frustration but would say that you need to change that attitude because it's not just unhelpful but you're also wrong.

If you do have passion about software you can make a good living out of it but need to sell yourself and know how to show value to customers. Age won't really matter if you are able to tell a good story. Getting the first jobs is the toughest part. Then you start understanding how.

Lose social media if it gets you down. It's not an indicator of anything. Go to therapy. Find stuff where you have passion and pursue that.

Nothing is guaranteed. I'm sorry you feel lied to or something but there's absolutely an amazing time to be had if you pursue and do what you love.

And yes, Norvig's advice on this post is great.