[nachocheese]

I'm new at this. And not sure about it either. Socialization is hard for me. I spent my childhood neglected and rejected. Tormented by my peers. Abused as a teen into young adulthood. Mother of 3 at 20. Homeless and alone with 3 little kids. No one was ever there for me! I don't understand and can't figure out what is so wrong with me that I am such a reject. I have a big heart and my life is good, on the outside. But internally no one knows how I hurt. I have 0 friends and cannot make any. I want to. I think I need to have someone in my life I can confide in. That's why I decided to try a support group. I really need help. I don't know how to open up to people. I feel very unlikable, such an outcast.
I have bipolar disorder, more depressive onset of symptoms.

[pegasus]

You are amongst friends here nachocheese, sounds like you have been through so much. You won't be rejected here, there is always someone online and we have a very good Bipolar forum that you might like to share your experiences with bipolar. Post when and where you feel comfortable. Hugs

[wisedude]

Hi.

My experience has been with people that if you are friendly, supportive, non-judgmental and tolerant of others that you should make be able to make friends! But also its important not to "dump all your problems" on people, that can overwhelm them.

Show interest in other peoples lives, ask them about themselves and listen, offer support to them when they need it (but not too much, you cannot be responsible for every problem a person has). Well these concepts are how I have made lots of friends.

You could try mothers / single parents support groups, and joining clubs etc.In general smile and be positive around others, if you act like you are totally intimidated and have zero self confidence it is not a good thing. Also your local council may have support programs, perhaps for mothers or people with mental illness.

Best of luck, I hope you make some good friends soon!

[RenjiCat]

Hi Nachocheese!

You've been through so much! You are a survivor! Try to hold your head up high!

I really think you will find some of the support you're craving here! I think you're right- it would really do you good to find someone you can open up too. Keeping things bottled up inside isn't a good thing.

I wish you the best!

[Moose72]

You have us here. This board is very supportive and friendly. I've been here for many years and I've yet to see anything bad go down.

[middlepath]

Hey Nacho...i will be your friend. I have felt like a square peg in a round hole for most of my life. It seems like you have been through a ton. I know I have, too.

[Phoenix_1]

Hey nachocheese. Welcome. Like you I was bullied as a child and had no friends. Right now I'm 59 and I have exactly 2 friends that I don't see very much. If you don't mind an older grandma type friend ( I have 4 grandkids) I'll be your friend.

Sent from my Note 2 using Tapatalk 4

[nachocheese]

Thanks everyone so much for your replies!! It really made me feel better. I hope to make good friends on here!