Recently I have been completely withdrawn. I have no interest to connect with anyone. I took my mother out for mother's day and relapsed, drining alcohol only to realize I was doing it because that dinner was the first I had with my mother sober. This is just an example, but I felt like I don't have much to give to others in way of company.

I also have a week-long writers residency at the end of July. I'm excited, although you wouldn't know it because I'm in a depressive state right now. But knowing I'll be on an island with plenty of people - while I'm looking forward to this - makes me feel even more withdrawn right now. As if I need to absorb all my energy for that week.

My mom wanted me to meet her new "friend" (prospective boyfriend) and hang out on Memorials Day. I'm not interested. I'm in between therapists, may have to get medication within the next couple of months, and had been diagnosed with yet another autoimmune disorder which means I need a new diet and to take supplements.

In a support group, one of the women talked about how the social avoidance she's experienced actually helped her through her period of recovery. And that made me feel a bit better about me not wanting to spend anymore time with people than I need to.

Has anyone gone through similar experiences? If so, what's it been like? How long did it last? What did you do during that time?