[GenCat]

I use to not be like this. I use to not feel like this. I use to be outgoing, friendly, social, and happy to go out and have fun. But over the past 3 years I've become afraid of all those things I use to like. I've now gotten use to isolation and to becoming an introvert. I use to have many friends, but now I only have one. I suppose it's my fault, I never put any effort into making friends or socializing with old ones. I've sadly become accustomed to sitting alone in my house, by my self to be alone with my many thoughts. I feel almost trapped, trapped in the day to day surviving to find happiness and myself again.

[bluedolphin92]

I'm sorry to hear that I'm actually kind of having the exact opposite problem. All my life I've been happy to be an introvert. Now I wish I could be a little bit more outgoing but I'm too afraid to try and put myself out there more and it makes me even more depressed.

[Bluegerbera1]

I hear you. I've been much more sociable in the past but now have few friends and have what I call my 'safe circle' which includes my partner, kids, parents (sometimes) and 1 friend. Even at that I rarely see the friend and prefer to stay at home. I know it's not healthy to do this all the time but until I feel different, I know I will just panic if I'm forced out to see other people.
I do find it a little easier to talk to strangers and find that it helps just to go to the shop or something and pass little comments with a neighbour or a shop assistant. Sounds a little pathetic when I see that written down but it's baby steps for me to be able to talk to anyone.
I hope things get easier for you.

[sm79]

I understand what you are going through. I have also become like that; I don't go out anymore unless I absolutely have to. I have been dealing with so many issues in my life during the past 1+ year that I avoid social situations all together. It is very a difficult thing to go through.

[LadyShadow]

I'm sorry that you're going through this. I have turned into an introvert as well. I have no friends that I can do things with, and I have pushed away all the people that really wanted to be my friend. I don't know if its the bipolar in me that caused it, or my own self-esteem issues.

But you're not alone in your feelings my friend, not alone at all.

[GenCat]

Originally Posted by sm79

I understand what you are going through. I have also become like that; I don't go out anymore unless I absolutely have to. I have been dealing with so many issues in my life during the past 1+ year that I avoid social situations all together. It is very a difficult thing to go through.

Wow, it means a lot to know others are battling this or very similar battles. Hugs to you all!