[ElmCity]

I suffer from major depression and I have no one local for support, outside of my doctor. I spend a lot of time alone and do not know how to break this cycle of depression. I do my job, I go to the library to read, i visit the Art Museum, but I cannot make connections with people. I guess that is why i am here.....

[Standup2me]

I know that this may sound strange, but do you really want to connect others? Sometimes we get our most peace from within yourself. ElmCity, your description of you is the description of me. People overwhelm me at times

Yes, this essentially describes me too. I'm retired now. I have acquaintances, but no friends. I also have no family except my wife. I've never been a particularly social person. I spend all of my time on the internet. I imagine that the best way to meet people & make friends would be to get involved in some activities with like-minded people outside of work. I think allot of people do this by belonging to a church or a club of some kind or by doing volunteer work of some sort. This is what I would do if I wanted to make friends... I don't...

[Standup2me]

I find people are energy vampires. They suck the energy right out of me

[MagicsMom]

Although I'm with SUPM - do you think you could have social anxiety? Aside from isolating when I'm depressed I also have social anxiety so I'm pretty much a homebody.

Plus I agree with SUPM

Volunteering in something that interests you is a great way to meet people with similar interests and it gives you something to talk about! Have you ever tried it? Were you able to make connections with people? Sometimes it takes a few weeks for bonds to really start, so keep at it. Making friends is not as hard as keeping them when you are bipolar or depressed.