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john74Senior Contributor
Hi l suffer from social anxiety and severe depression and anxiety. I am so isolated after a family breakdown and have no friends or family. Just so scared to try to get out of my shell after years of abuse. Any suggestions?
In response to: Lack of social contact
MauveNew Contributor
In response to: Lack of social contact
Miss-wishSenior Contributor
Hi @john74,
Have you found a DV organisation to talk to? 1800respect (1800737732 ) they had a different name almost 20 years ago when I used them. They were great help and made me realise that it's not just the physical things that are damaging, they got me to understand and process what for years had been happening.
Support groups online and face to face, it can take time to open up and there is never any rush. what did you enjoy doing before? have you got any new interests?
In response to: Lack of social contact
mrt424uCasual Contributor
Hello! I've had SA my whole life, and full blown agoraphobia amounting to 1/8 th of my life. At first it's great to hide away from everything but then the loneliness...omg the loneliness.
everyone's different right, but I'll tell you what helped me. i took part in a mindfulness for depression and anxiety study at a local Uni, but i guess anyone who offers this would be great. Getting there was difficult, but i used small amounts of anxiolytics the first few times. This was a life changing experience for me.
Started volunteering... again very difficult but used aniolytics the first couple of times until i got over my fear of lots of people.
The local dog park has been amazing! obviously helps if you have a dog...lol.
Am guessing since you have a diagnosis you probably have a medico? if not, speak to one (GP/psychiatrist) and try anti-depressants
I've life long bi polar and am medicated, but the meds aren't great. i use aerobic exercise to kick the dog to the curb. i run or cycle (i started with fat paced walking). it's truly been a blessing for me.
Good luck, thanks for asking for help and allowing me to ramble at you. I'm suffering a bit of loneliness myself ATM, but is very fluid and situational. i know it will pass.
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
tymeModerator
Hey @mrt424u ,
Thank you so much for sharing. It's incredible to read of how far you have come.
In response to: Lack of social contact
oceangirlSenior Contributor
Hi @john74
I hear you. I can relate to how you feel. You are very strong to deal with all of this. Little steps forwarded, and only do things that you are comfortable with.
How do you manage your condition? Physical activity will help reduce your anxiety.
In response to: Lack of social contact
NatureLoverSenior Contributor
Sorry to hear, @john74 . You mentioned you have severe depression, so I'm not sure how able you are to get out and about. But if/when you feel able, volunteering is a great way to meet new friends and socialise over work tasks.
Sending you good wishes...
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
john74Senior Contributor
Thanks # nature lover l am just so scared of rejection and what other people think of me
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
john74Senior Contributor
Thanks @NatureLover l am just so scared of others judging me and rejection. I don't have reliable transport so that's hard.
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
john74Senior Contributor
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
john74Senior Contributor
Hi @Miss-wish l have tried several times to get support from Orange door and other services but was just brushed off . My ex is still controlling joint assets and despite mediation etc is still refusing a property settlement and my old car is barely drivable, .l just see no end in sight to the pain with all of the issues l have combined including medical issues. Thanks for your support.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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