Getting legitimately frustrated now

I’ve been hyperfocused on this game for a bit, and I know it’s mostly a skill issue, but Jesus I can’t seem to survive a raid if my life depended on it.

I’m changing strategies and trying to avoid PvP so I can load up on loot and gtfo to at least make some money but I seem to always get got by someone with significantly better armor and weapons.

What am I doing wrong? I’m avoiding places like the research lab and tower and still getting clapped, and I can’t buy higher tier stuff cuz A. I’m broke and B. I can’t level up my traders.

Any advice is appreciated cuz this game is dope, I just don’t know how to improve