Don't know how to move forward

@BronH

There are various threads on the forum to talk about different interests, anbd gradually get to know people.

Its great you found (and probably paid for) good psychotherapy.

I have struggled a lot with groups and can be a bit childlike at times. Possibly I jump in too quickly.

Take Care

Thanks for sharing your story with us @BronH and sorry to hear you are feeling like you don't know what to do with yourself. That sounds really tough.

Your psychiatrist may have already talked about how good self care is just as important for building confidence. What kinds of activities and hobbies do you enjoy when you are alone?

Making quality relationships takes time and energy and many adults experience difficulties making new friends, particularly beyond traditional environments like work, etc. Some people have found it helpful to join a group where the main activity is physical, as a way to take the pressure off needing to talk or make direct personal relationships. Have you thought about joining a team activity, like netball, dragon boating, or orienteering, for example?

Jump in to some threads if you're able and hang out in the social pages, you're amongst others who understand.

hi @BronH I spent 7 years in total isolation with no friends or family due to my mental illness. Then I spent 2 years going to Meetups, trying to meet new people & develop new friendships. It was very hard and I failed a lot, often felt emotionally injured - like you I am very much a child in my emotions & attachments, But with persistence and good meds, I did develop a few friendship circles, now I have an active socail life and supportive friends. I'd suggest going to Meetups & being persistent over a long period of time, there are some lovely people out there but I had to work hard to find them.

Thanks Ali11,

It can be hard getting the energy to do my hobbies when I am depressed - I seem to lack concentration. I do have hobbies - learning French, reading and playing music. I like your selfcare tip - it makes sense to me.

I have done physical activities - they seem to go okay at the gym where the instructors leave you alone. Recently in a yoga class the teacher got more involved and I ended up leaving the class. Not quite up to team sports but they sound like fun.

Thanks again for your post.

It can be hard to have the energy or motivation to do hobbies but making sure that you have a routine can help with that. That's interesting about the teachers with physical activity, why do you prefer to have less help with that?

Have you managed to check out the activities put on by your local council or library? They sometimes have different classes that are generally free or low cost which will help increase your social activity.