> Or stick your money in an index fund

Yes, the market grows over a long horizon.

Know this though - that long horizon might exceed your horizon when you definitely need the money.

Index funds can often perform worse than cash in a 3% bank checking account if the timing's off. There are a few of those 3% bank checking accounts right here in the U.S.

Sure! The same learning still applies though - don't be scared, it'll be ok, keep investing.