Social isolation

Hi there,

I have just joined the forum, and I was just wanted to talk about social isolation. I find when I am struggling mentally, I withdraw from people, and this has now caused a void in my life where I don't have people who are friends. I am very fortunate to have the love, acceptance and understanding of my husband, and a good friend who has known me since I was diagnosed 31 years ago. I just wondered if others find it hard in group settings, to keep up with people's conversations without running the risk of interrupting, and a bit shy to start with? I find I am not good in group settings, as I literally end up saying nothing because it is like I can't keep up, and I find I am "lost for words", and feel quite shy, as well. I find loneliness the biggest struggle, and the most crippling. I consider myself to be an optimist, and a problem solver, and I realise loneliness does not have to defeat me. I know that social isolation can be a symptom of my illness, something that I know I struggle with. Thank you for reading my post and sharing with me any of your thoughts. I wish you all well.