Isolation consequences

For 13 years now I have isolated myself. Because of this we have no more friends - none. I strive for a no stress life because I can't deal with even the slightest stress. I have 2 sons 22 and 26. My 26 yr old is getting married in a little over a month. I've met her mom 1 time and never her father (they live in our neighborhood). I'm meeting with her Friday to discuss things for the 1st time. They are just wanting to go to the courthouse and have a small informal ceremony and plan to have a wedding next spring. Her parents friends are having a shower for them the end of July and I'm suppose to bring a list of family and friends who can attend. 0 friends. No family at all in our state. I am very uncomfortable telling her we have no friends who can come. I have social anxiety and very nervous to even meet with her but this is really pushing me over the edge. What will she tell herself about why we have no friends. Isolation was how I felt like I had to protect myself. Now I'm paying the price!

You've described very well the dangers of isolation, but in my opinion it's nothing to be ashamed of nor something you have to give an explanation for.

My situation is different. My girlfriend doesn't like to get married because I have no friends and she a lot. Social isolation comes at a high price. It's easy for the short term, but so difficult to change.

Don't blame yourself for the isolation. Try to make some changes. Take your time. Be nice to yourself.

Thanks Helmus. People don't know other people's problems and it's not like we go around telling anyone. But they are going to be my sons in laws and I don't want to start off by giving a weird impression. But having zero friends to someone who is not in the know has to be a little weird. But I don't like it when people try to be something they are not and try to appear like everything is wonderfully in their life and they are wonderful. I'm pretty much for the most part real about who I am without ofcourse talking about my problems. But this is new territory for me and I'm forced into it. Makes me uncomfortable.