Feeling alone

Hey there, I'm a 17 year old without any real friends. This has been going on for 5years, basically my whole high school life. Many regard me as friendly, and normal, however I find it difficult making real friends, to really share my experiences, deepest thoughts, and ...... I find myself being the outcast at times in terms of speaking and being interesting, I wish i was as good as others, instead of feeling like the outcast.

I feel like i can't socialize as well as others can, being able to be funny, speak about particular topics, and carry on the conversation. Hence I could never really establish a real sense of connection which leads up to real friendship. I feel lonely in many situations, though I'm perfectly fine having normal talk with peers, I've had ball dates/prom dates, and I'm not insecure about my physique, looks, I just feel like I'm not capable of having any real friends. I'm afraid of living a lonely and depressed life. I also find it hard digesting criticism, it often keeps me sad and occupied, does this mean i'm insecure? It's not normal for a 17 year old to have no real friends, or any sort of social life, where as others are having relationships, going to the movies, and having a blast during their teen years. i find myself often depressed, and in a serious pursuit for happiness. It's really the isolation and social insecurity, which causes the depression. Would someone mind giving advice? or any help in general...

look around and find 1 friend. any shape, size, or age. just start there. to get a friend follow these steps:

1. make eye contact with strangers. do it 100 times
2. smile at strangers. do it 100 times
3. say "hi" to strangers. do it 100 times
4. ask question to stranger. do it (guess)

eventually you'll make some convo's and become friends with 1 person. that's where you start. if you don't do it you will get more depressed. so do it now, ok?

That's some realy good advice, even I'm going to try that.

I know how hard it is making friends. As a teenager I had no friends either. I just didn't know how to carry on the conversation. Now I do have some acquaintances but they are not friends. I met my boyfriend who is my only real friend by chance. I don'thave any advice fo ryou but just wanted to say I can relate.

Sounds like good advice - "lost my future" I think I'll try that!! Hey Daniel, I feel for you not having friends at the present time. You said you are 17, are you planning on going to college?? You sound like an intelligent and serious person. Perhaps you feel you don't "fit in" in high school? Don't give up!! High school isn't all there is to life!! Perhaps at college you will feel more comfortable. Do you go to a big high school or small high school?? Join after school clubs according to your interests and make friends (or friendly acquaintances) with people you have common interests with.

Yeah I wish I could give advice as well. But having the problems for a while, but amplified last few years and I'm 23. I feel like a decently smart person but when it comes to social things in general feel like a complete idiot, I miss the nuance stuff and the hints and such that a normal person would pickup and know how to respond to. Again sorry I can't give advice, just wanted to post to say your not the only one there quite a few AVPDers actually.

Hi, Daniel, you ARE a very verbal person and you DO express yourself so intelligent and interesting, something to be proud of...
Being outcast is ONLY IN YOUR MIND, so unnecessary...
If you had a beloved brother precisely like you, suffering like you, with all problems and shortcomings - what advice would you give him wanting to help him?........................