Well OliverB, I got lucky and met my wife on a website for the mentally ill. Welcome to nolongerlonely.com You can also hang out here at the forums. I've met many good friends here. Another suggestion is for you to join a book discussion group. You can get information about them at your local library. How about volunteer work? My wife and I are just getting into volunteering at the local animal shelter helping walk the dogs. I guess what I'm saying is that there are many opportunities to meet new people... you just have to open the door. I hope this helps! Good luck!

I also came from a very dysfunctional childhood... I'm in the process of going through therapy to confront it. Very wise to remove yourself from the situation. Many people struggle to find the strength to do that. It's VERY difficult!!! Good luck....