Isolated

I was already an introvert but was able to manage social situations fairly well. Since separation from my wife, I have retreated to isolation as a way of hiding my feelings. I work full time and can put on the act of being "in a great mood all the time and lifting other's up" according to my boss. My kids were my world and now I don't see them everyday which is causing my depression, anxiety, and isolation to intensify. I see a therapist and Psychiatrist but they don't seem to be helping. I am scared of what this path is leading to.

[Hidden]

The isolation is the worst part. Being alone in your life and in your head is so hard. I have to push myself to go out. I can do great at work and people think I’m an extrovert but that is all a cover. The depression and anxiety is always there. I try to find activities I enjoy to occupy my mind. I have to believe I can meet new people and foster new friendships but I know I have to leave my house to do that.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I try hard to motivate myself to meet new people but always end up in an almost paralyzed state. It's "comfortable" not taking that step to create new relationships but it drives me deeper in to this hole.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I am terrified of people and being hurt. I have to push myself to let people in. That is what I struggle with. Anger with myself for creating this isolation. I know what got me here but getting out seems impossible sometimes but I keep trying and trying. Hoping that my life of connection and belonging is out there

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I, too, find myself angry at the fact I can't do the simplest tasks. I froze going to a group therapy session and bailed because I thought I would just be judged. Judged by people going to a session designed specifically to allow similar people to share their emotions and support each other. I try to explain these feelings to others and am told to just "put my big boy pants on and get over it". I just can't and don't know how. I am scared I will continue to spiral deeper in to isolation past the point of no return.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

I don’t believe it’s voluntary. It is outside of my control some days. Only people who struggle understand. I understand completely 💛

[9Aurelius]

I am an introvert also. I am going through some extremely hard life changes similar to yours. I feel for you and you're not alone. Also more so isolated than ever before. What I have experienced, now I'm afraid to be close to people.

[smilezz]

I hope Everything Be okay for you!!

[Pamela2876]

I am sorry you are facing this! Counseling can be so helpful that is a great first step. It sounds like you are taking steps to get help for yourself that is something really positive, many people never reach out for help. I would love to share a resource with you that might be helpful. bit.ly/38uLmsB I hope you find it helpful!