[cms39]

Is it ok to use this site for loneliness? I mean, I have a diagnosis of OCD, but it's controlled with medication. I think my problem is really loneliness. Does using the computer increase loneliness?

[cms39]

Not depressed. Just very lonely.

[wi_fighter]

I wouldn't say it increases loneliness, but I know for me it makes it easier to isolate. Isn't it easier to make contact if you can sit here in the PJ's, unshowered, than it is to shower and get dressed and do your hair and makeup and drive somewhere to be in a group of people? I know it is for me. Not healthy, but with gas prices so high and a tight entertainment budget, it makes it reallllly easy to stay at home.

[Quay]

Sorry you are feeling so lonely. I've felt that way too at times. It's a hard place to be.

I'm not sure the computer increases loneliness. For me, the evening and night are the most troublesome. It's too late to call anyone, and I'm not so sure what I would say even if I did call. With the computer I at least have a way to reach others and find people to talk to. It is also a place to ask questions, or speak of things, that I can't discuss with others face to face. It's definitely an outlet for me.

I did find that there are warm lines in most towns, as opposed to crisis or hot lines. They generally operate from 5pm until 10pm at night. You might find that this helps the loneliness.

Take care, Quay

[(JD)]

I agree, it can cause you to isolate yourself more and lose yourself in the virtual world. But you can also use the internet for good, too. Guess it's up to you. I am alone, too. I always will be is the way I approach it, and if not, then that will be good. TC

[JustBen]

Tough one to answer. I think it depends on whether you're using this forum to truly connect with others, or if you're coming here because it's just less threatening than connecting with folks in other ways.

[Fuzzybear]

The computer also makes it easier for me to isolate and not connect so much with people in 3D.

But it is possible to find a "healthy" balance with friends/contacts on the computer and those in 3D..... I just haven't found it yet....

I am sorry you are lonely, I know how that feeling hurts

Bearhugs,
Fuzzy

[cms39]

I TRY to connect with folks in other ways. I sent a card to a friend I haven't heard from in a long time. I try calling another person I think is a friend and there is never an answer - just a machine. I joined a storytelling group. I am trying.

[dexter]

I think you are on an excellent track, cms.

I use this place because at any time of the day or night I can come and connect with other people when I am having a hard time. I don't consider it a replacement for IRL communities.

I isolate myself TERRIBLY when I am depressed. As many know, my phone has been shut off due to lack of payment, but the lack of payment is because I just wasn't using the phone and didn't care about having a phone for many months. I simply ignored the bill.

I make a very hard effort to reach out to people, emails to people I am "convinced" don't care about me anymore, etc. It is hard and I often end up feeling rejected. But I know that a lot of that is just the depression coloring my perceptions, so I persevere.

As many others have said, I think the best idea lies in a balance. At times when depression cuts you off from everyone and the whole world, this place can provide the people and community that you need to keep going. It is still important to try to work through the depression and reestablish our outside ties to our friends and community. Sometimes we need first to find some relief for the depression before we are even able to attempt that. This place fills a much needed void in that case.

[cms39]

Thank you Fuzzy. I hope you and I can both find that balance. Good post. You are my friend.

Thanks.