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UnrealGirl86Casual Contributor
I have felt very alone and isolated throughout my life. I have battled both physical and mental health issues. I have experienced a lot of bullying and abuse which has lead to social anxiety. I struggle to meet others. I feel like I can't connect with others. And it's not because I feel like there's something inherently wrong with me. I'm not actually sure why I can't seem to find and maintain close connections.
In response to: Isolation
CJC1Casual Contributor
I can really relate to what you say. I've always experienced loneliness and a sense of disconnect to others. I have such a low sense of self worth. My anxiety has worsened over time. I never allow anyone to get close to me and I haven't made a close friendship with anyone since I was 18 (now 55). I spend 95% of my time alone.... hating myself. And I too don't think I'm 'bad,' in fact I know many people think I am a good person. But I don't! I think I am pathetic. I am not motivated to do anything. And I wish the continuous voice in my head would just LEAVE ME ALONE!!! All I do now to try and escape this mental torture is eat and drink excedsively EVERY night....after I've said, 'I'm not doing that again tomorrow night.' But I do?!?
In response to: Isolation
NatureLoverSenior Contributor
Welcome, @UnrealGirl86 and @CJC1 , it's good to have you here 🙂
I know there are practical things you (I mean anyone) can do to make connections with people, like volunteering, which has really helped me.
But I also know that things like social anxiety make it harder.
Do either of you have a psychologist or counsellor to help you work through things and develop strategies to connect with others?
A handy forum tip to tag someone is to type @ and then click on their name in the drop-down box - that way they'll get a notification that you've replied to them and won't miss your reply.
I hope you find the forums supportive...
In response to: Re: Isolation
UnrealGirl86Casual Contributor
@CJC1 thank you for your reply. Sorry I am so late in getting back to you. My head has been drowning in stress.
I also have very low self esteem, and I have not had a close female friend in many years. Have you also felt betrayed or abandoned by friends or people you love and find it hard to trust anyone again because of it?
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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.
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.
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