I miss the life i used to have.

[M23456]

Im new here, for many years i have suffered from depression and anxiety. Im in my 40s and ive never been married or had kids, i come from a large family but hardly any of them talk to me. My parents are getting old so i cant really talk to them much anymore. I worry about the future. What will i have to keep me going after theyre gone. My life is so empty and lonely. I miss my early 20s when i had more in my life. 

[hanami]

Hi @M23456 

Sounds like things are really tough for you right now. I'm sorry to hear that. This is a great community to connect with others who feel like you do. I do hope you stick around, you are most welcome here!

Are there any activities that you like to do that take your mind off you feelings of sadness and anxiety?

Do you have a mental health team you can ask for more support?

I have anxiety myself and at times had very dark days so I get that.

I do hope we can help support you and I hope you find some connections here.

Warmest wishes

Hanami

[tyme]

Hey there @M23456 ,

Great to have you with us on the forums! I'm sorry to hear that you are feeling lonely and things are tough. 

I've never been married nor have my own kids, but I do fill my time doing A LOT of things! As @hanami mentioned, what are somethings you are interested in? For me, I has to find meaningful activities that were meaningful for ME. Most pf my meaningful activities revolve around helping others. There are a few elderly people I visit. Even 15-30mins of my time can make their day.

I also spend time with my nieces and nephews, work, treat myself to eating out, buy myself gadgets, read, go for walks...

What about you? What do you find meaningful in life?

[Tremles]

Find your joy.  What things do you like to do? Do them more.  Loneliness is very hard.  How can you increase your connection to your community? 

[M23456]

Hi. Sorry for the late reply, this reply is for everyone that has replied to me so far, i feel im in a catch 22, because i feel so bad its hard to get motivated to do things and get involved but on the other hand i know i should to hopefully help the way i feel so i cant win. Theres other things about my life i havent mentioned yet but someone mentioned for me to do things i enjoy, my mum said that too. I do go out sometimes to music events but women just ignore me. I feel like a shadow or a ghost in this world. Thanks everyone who has replied so far, i really appreciate it. 

[polarbear3344]

Hi there, I'm so sorry you are feeling this way. Loneliness is very tough to deal with. I am experiencing similar problems. I am in my 30s and the few friends I had have all moved interstate or overseas. And I don't know how to make new friends when I am not currently working. But I have decided to do a pilates instructor course. It has really helped me mentally and physically and I'm hoping I'll meet some likeminded people there.
Please continue to reach out if you need someone to talk to!

[ssymphony]

Hi. Your subject title caught my eye, cuz I feel the same way. Some days more so than others. I read somewhere that depression is dwelling in the past, anxiety is dwelling in the future.. Anything that brings you to stay/become present. That could help.