Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.
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
NatureLoverSenior Contributor
I'm sorry to hear this @john74 .
Would it help to know that charities and other organisations are crying out for volunteers? Masses of volunteers resigned during Covid. That way you might be able to focus on the work and not what others might be thinking of you?
The lack of transport is a difficult one. But you could possibly investigate local charities. Look at something you're interested in maybe?
In response to: Lack of social contact
Miss-wishSenior Contributor
Hi @john74,
I'm so sorry you have had no help 😢 that should never happen. I found https://mensline.org.au/ that should be able to help. hopefully mediation works, unfortunately it doesn't always work, for me it took a lawyer and court end that situation for me. Please stay strong, I know it evokes a lot of emotions but things will get better.
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
john74Senior Contributor
Hi @Miss-wish Unfornuatly mensline were no heal also. I feel there is no help available from anyone . I feel that things will get no better in my life .
In response to: Re: Lack of social contact
Miss-wishSenior Contributor
@john74 I am so sorry to hear this, everyone needs support. I really wish I could help you more, but I'm not sure how to do that 😢
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.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
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.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
You’ll soon be able to use one secure login to access all SANE services.
For added security, members are now required to log in with their email address and password - member names are no longer supported for logging in.
If you had a Forums account before 19 May 2026 and haven’t set up your new login yet, you'll be prompted to set up your new secure login when you sign-in.
Fields marked * are required
