I spent three days seeing two sets of relatives. I got back on Thursday and felt fine. Now that Saturday’s here, I’m depressed and lonely again. Just how much socialization do I need and why do I not stay okay for longer?
Well, I looked it up:
Get one to three hours of social interaction per day. That’s between seven and 21 hours of social time per week—far more than the average of 34 minutes of socializing most of us get each day.
Exactly where do I get this much socializing done? I can’t keep phoning the mental health line every day… Even if I do, the most I can talk to someone is ten to fifteen minutes, they’re so overwhelmed with calls.
The ads for neck pain solutions are freaking me out. I feel like people are watching me…
I have the same problem. I overall fear being alone…
I am very grateful that I have my BF with me atleast at evenings.
I crave communication. Though it’s strange because they say people with SZ are more likely to isolate.
I could suggest you to try find some activities which involve people: like group meetings. Overall, maybe it sounds stupid, but finding some people to communicate, new friends is a good idea?
I’m 49…it’s tough to find new friends for many reasons. I haven’t had any friends since 2004 (lost a lot of them because of the SZ), and a big part of me likes it that way, because I still feel betrayed…but all the stats say isolation causes health issues in the long run. I want the end part of my life to be better than the beginning. I want a happy ending.
I feel the isolation more intensely since quitting an art site that got me a lot of compliments/praise. I’m also tired of books and reading about everyone’s life but not having much of one on my own. It’s not enough…
Everyone my age is married with teenagers too. Also, not many non-schizophrenic people want to be my friend if I tell them about all my health issues. I could find friends with other people with health issues, but as I learned before 2004, they’re always cancelling plans because they feel anxiety or whatever the issue is. Totally unreliable.
I suppose I could try online dating again, but I’m not healthy enough to attract the type of guy I want. I’m just one of the left overs that nobody wanted.
There are groups on meetup.com where you share interests with other people. Some of the groups meet virtually too. There are book clubs, walking groups, dinner groups etc. it’s totally worth a try.
If you have religion in your life you can go to a religious institution and join groups there.
You can join virtual or in person NAMI meetings (they’re free).
You can join a Clubhouse from Clubhouse International.
You can join a bowling league or take classes at the closest craft store like Joann fabrics or Michael’s.
I totally cannot handle being alone for long periods so I totally get it. I spent tons of time rejected and alone growing up and now I do whatever necessary in order to be able to talk to people.
I hope you join multiple things so you aren’t so alone. You deserve to be liked and loved and not alone
Even if I do, the most I can talk to someone is ten to fifteen minutes, they’re so overwhelmed with calls.