Loneliness

[Black_dog_summer456]

I have been struggling with anxiety and depression for about 9 years. And have had a rough go the past 2 years with health problems. I am looking for some sort of support group to have, because I go through some really dark depressive episodes, and can't afford to go down that spiral

[Hidden]

Hi and welcome among friends! You have come to the right place for support!

[Existing]

I cant offer many answers because I'm always searching for support groups myself. I think you, like me, understand the vital aspect support plays in our ability to endure what doesnt seem to be possible

I agree with other comment that this is the best support I've found right here. I actually do feel connected and cared about by people on here, who always respond, and who allow me to offer assistance when I can.

I agree, we really need more invested support groups and people in our lives we can reach out to when we are struggling. Until I find one, this is the next best thing. Good luck. People here listen and care.

[Black_dog_summer456 in reply to Existing]

Thank you both for your reply. It is hard to find support anymore with the day and age we live in. Especially since I'm not religious, I don't go to any churches to meet people.

[Existing in reply to Black_dog_summer456]

Right, unless you have a substance abuse is, they have 12 step programs that provide the best support I've seen anywhere. Its interesting too that the less connected and more isolated society is becoming, with technology, there is less formal support available. It seems obvious to me it should be the other way around. We need it now more than ever.

[bethelbee]

There are also Zoom support groups which are really helpful. I was on one out of Ontario Canada for a while(I am in the states) that I really liked. Hope & Mood Disorders Assoc of Ontario. It was well run by moderators, very organized and you could talk/share if you wanted or just listen. NAMI also has support groups; check on their website. Everyone is right, they are needed now more than ever. I hope you can find what you need! Take care and keep us posted.

[Daveacr1959]

I am here if you want to private chat or in this thread . Read my profile to see if you see anything we can relate to. Thanks

[Hollick]

Black, try hard to not go down that spiral as you say, we can't afford to and it can be hell trying to climb back out, I know it well...it sounds like loneliness is an issue, its so rampant these days, described as an actual epidemic for various reasons...well loneliness will only create more loneliness if not addresed and certainly depression, anxiety, the list goes on...I empathize with the health issues, I have my own as I'm getting older, and mental health has a been a major longstanding one...this of course can also affect quality of life..I hope you can make some connections and possibly form some healthy friend/relationships Black, it won't be easy, not these days, but doable....times are especially tough for so many right now, all the obvious n negative world events, covid alone changed people in general, ppl are fearful, have trust issues, lots of sadness for many, to much uncertainty about the future, very scary for many, a crippling economy...I know the dark depresive episodes you allude to...please take care, I wish you all the luck, keep us updated on your progress, and thanks for your bravery n honesty in sharing...always take solace in knowing you are NOT alone buddy, there are many, we are here as well, this is a safe site, many nice folks...🙏

[Bella_lee]

Hi @Black_dog_summer456 how are you doing? I know dealing with anxiety and depression is not a path anyone wants to walk and my heart goes out to you. Please feel free to post on here anytime as we're all on here to support each other.

You are stronger than you know and I'm wishing you even more strength for the future and healing as you journey forward in overcoming these health problems.

[Black_dog_summer456]

Thank you guys very much. I think I have some trauma from my past that I need to work through. I'm going to see if I can get a therapist. I am really glad to have you guys on here to talk to. And hopefully I can be a support for you guys as well. I miss having a community

[Lazy_dog_lover]

Hello Black_dog,

What has been going on? Do you have any known triggers or coping mechanisms that have worked in the past?

I had a major car accident two years ago. It was the first week of COVID lock down in my area. I have been through 8 surgeries with 2-3 more to come and a possible foot amputation This year.

I just finished an online IOP (intensive outpatient program). It was 5 days a week on Zoom. We focused on different CBT topics and relaxation strategies.

If you like podcasts, check out Jay Shetty or Lewis Howes.

Let me know if there is anything I can do.

[MmSh]

Hello Black_dog: I've just joined this online community - actually, it's my 1st time ever joining an online group. Your post hit me in the gut - I'm lonely too. It's part of the reason I decided to join this online community.

I just wanted to let you know that you are not alone. There are many of out here in pain trying to do what we can to find our path of healing. You're on that path even if it may not seem like it when those dark moments hits. Just by you reaching out on this community shows that you're searching for a way to cope and heal.

I don't have answers, I am searching for them myself, but we walk this path together, and with so many others. You may not see us, but we're there, walking, thinking, trying, learning, falling at times and then picking ourselves up.

Think of how you've picked up yourself up after falling down. You've done it. Keep it up. One day at a time, one minute a time. Stay present and mindful of where you are at.

You're not alone! I promise.

Hoping your present moment is a good one.

[Black_dog_summer456]

Sorry guys for the late reply, I have been quite busy lately. My coping mechanisms that work the best are exercise of one form or another, or being out in nature. I like to play basketball and skateboard. And I love warm weather and doing yardwork. Lazy_dog_lover I am very sorry to hear about the surgeries and amputations. I am here for you to listen and try and understand what you are going through as best as possible. I have Ulcerative Colitis, and that has been rough to deal with in these past few years. I hope that your health recovers, or improves. Thank you all for the words of inspiration and support, I appreciate you all even if I don't know you in person.