Losing my mind!

[Soccer_dog]

It's so lonely out here!

[The_Color_Blue]

I'm sorry you feel lonely. That's such a difficult emotion to deal with. You did the right thing by coming to this site to seek connection and conversation. One of the biggest challenges to loneliness is that it can be so isolating. That is, even when there are people around, we can get lost in the darkness that is lonely and we turn ever more inward on ourselves (which, of course, only makes the loneliness worse).

Have you reached out to family and/or friends?

Is there anyone who you might consider asking to coffee (either in person or via web)?

Do you have a support system where you are?

Do you know the source of your loneliness?

I realize the last question seems a bit odd, but not all lonely feelings stem from the same place. For instance, when my father died I felt lonely - despite having family and friends around who were desperately trying to support me. My loneliness came from grief and the feelings I had about myself, my family/friends, priorities, and the world. However, I have also felt lonely while in an unhealthy relationship. Here again, I had friends and family, but what I was missing was a romantic connection; someone who asked me about my day and rode with me through the highs and lows; someone who made me feel seen and heard, even at my worst.

Sometimes, if you can figure out where the loneliness comes from, it can be easier to address the source more directly and get yourself on a path toward feeling more connected. Whether the steps toward recovery include joining new groups and putting yourself out there, benefiting from a support animal or volunteering position, or seeking professional help - there definitely isn't a one size fits all approach. There are a lot of people in this little online community who are also feeling isolated. I often feel better after I respond to someone else who is having a difficult time. That level of empathy and compassion - the act of stepping outside myself in an effort to really understand someone else's pain - it not only gets me out of my head, but it helps me to feel less alone. I know that other people are dealing with the same types of emotions - and I feel more connected to someone and my world in general.

Try to do something today that you sincerely enjoy - something to get yourself out of your head for a bit and connecting with something (even yourself in a genuine way). Regardless of what you do, know that this community is here for you and understands what you're going through. There is support here. You are not alone.

[my4sons]

The_Color_Blue has a great response. And I agree with trying to identify source of loneliness. In addition to connecting here, try to interact with someone in person, socially, at least every couple of weeks. This could be family or friend, but needs to be specifically for social reasons - not I live with them interaction. It could also be a stranger such as if you attended a meetup group or even an in person support group. Our bodies biologically need interaction with other humans.

[berryblue222]

I’ve been on here for so long now just lurking around. I’ve been meaning to post but never did. This group seems so supportive and caring. Great group!

Where are you in the U.S?

I feel the same way many times. 61 lonely going through health issues etc… anxiety, depression. Some days better at times but rare lately. No real personal friends in my life. A couple good friends though but they are live far and seems this year besides last year, more issues. It’s been really a roller coaster.

I accidentally found a great program so far with good counseling and support but still can get lonely.

I’m not about to put my whole story- issues of many out here yet. Many times I just don’t know where to start too be honest.

If you’d like reach out to me. I’ll be happy to try and be supportive as I can.

Please know you’re not alone in your struggles. There seems to be so many of us struggling. I know it doesn’t help ease any pain.

Many wish we could take the many difficulties away from each other and make it better.

Either way try to take care of you.

[NattyBumpo]

Soccer_dog,I know the feeling! But,we are not truly alone. There are a lot of us out here,and we care about you,we support you,and we'd like to help. Sometimes,just having someone to talk to,about anything,can help. I'm here for you,and so are a lot of us. Stay strong. We'll get through this yet!

[Laykonyde]

Sorry to hear you feel this way.

Is there a thing I can do to help?.

You can always chat with me.

I want to listen to you.

[Nina2016]

Hello from Denver friend! It’s lonely here too! Good thing I have my kitties 🐱

Meatball