isolation

[participant05]

any tips on how to end the isolation and depression that has been going on for about 3 years. as a kid and throughout life I experienced a lot of trauma. both at home and in a clinical setting. as things got resolved at home- I wont leave home now. its hard because being around people is nervewrecking to me.

[CL3V3R-G1RL]

With me it was just I got tired of being inside. So I decided once day to go outside. Just be out there for a few minutes. Then I worked it up to taking a walk to the end of the street and come back to my house. I kept doing that until I decided I was comfortable to walk a little bit further. Eventually I got to walk to my mom's house. Which is not real fat away but when you struggle with getting outside, it's a big deal.

Music while walking helps and singing or humming along to it. That helped as well.

[fauxartist]

I want to say all kinds of uplifting anecdotes, but the honest truth is....after years and years of having to deal with people because of my business... I'm burnt out. I will say though, that my trauma as a kid now does play a part in my life when socializing, especially with I'm spiraling down the rabbit hole with my depression. And as much as it is important to talk to humans.... for me now for me....nahhh... not so much. I write here, and that works for me. I think sometimes all this social butterfly stuff is overrated. I'm okay being personable with those in the house, my partner and I talk a lot, and the occasional passer-by, and all that....but at my age... I'm okay where I am. I'd say if you feel it's a problem, than keep seeking help to change what your not happy with.

I also think that finding an outlet that is a positive for you, like hopefully writing here can be, it may be what you need for now. Not everybody has to be social all the time....

[Dolphin14]

participant05

Welcome to the community. Are you able to get out for anything or are you totally house bound?

It's all baby steps. I would run to the grocery store for one item to " practice" then I worked my way up with my list.

I did manage to get to my therapy sessions at all times so I wasn't agoraphobic I wouldn't say. I was anxious around people and at that point I had an as needed medication and I would always take it to get out the door

🐬

[participant05 in reply to Dolphin14]

no yeah I get out of the house sometimes. I guess my isolation comes from not having sufficient close relationships.I get nervous around people. so much to the point I isolate and when I do it feels so bad. I get out of the house but I dont get out of the house everyday. my depression has sunken down so bad. the more I isolate the more depressed I am. its a never ending cycle.

[secrets22]

being isolated is the worst thing in the world, and i know what it feels like.

[participant05 in reply to secrets22]

I agree

[quietmaroon4]

Hi participant05. Truthfully, I don't have any great tips to offer. I struggle with isolation too. If you're able, try taking baby steps as they say. Just take a small, manageable trip. Even if it's to the mailbox or whatever, that's progress. Then gradually take larger trips. Ugh, this advice is cliche, but I don't have anything else better. Apologies for that.

Please know that you're not alone though. Sending well wishes to you.

[participant05]

thanks for your support