thanks for everyone's input. I do see there are 2 sides to every suggestion.
Personally - I am having difficulties with the chat rooms at work (They may well be blocked, lol) so I could only get on at home, but I don't really use PC at home, as my boyfriend would have an issue with it (He's still coming to grips with the mental health thing)
So, on a PERSONAL level, the chat rooms are not an option really for me.
But I appreciate the PM option.

I'd also like some clarification: Amandalouise mentions the moderators. I thought they were only there to "police" the boards. Are the moderators selected on their experience/qualifications...?? Are the moderators there to be PM'd if you're looking for someone to talk to? Sorry for sounding like an idiot. I'm just trying to see the whole picture.
I don't think there are any mods that I've befriended, so it wouldn't be like I'd be PM-ing a friend, just a mod that happens to be online