YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

Hello
Hey guys just looking for positive friends. I have schizoaffective disorder depression type. I have been really depressed for 2 and half years. I isolate myself. The only people in my life are mostly family and not very positive. So I think that’s a lot of my problems, need to find better more positive people to hang out with. I am going to try and call old friends next week and catch up. It’s terrible I haven’t stayed in contact with them. I just dig my self a hole and can’t stop digging. I been drinking 4 tall boys beers a day to change my mood, but we all know that’s not helping. Tomorrow going to start exercising, not drink and work on my diet. I will let you k ow how it goes. If someone is struggling too like to jeR from ya. Maybe we can help each other. Thanks hope to hear from you guys soon

It is great you are actively pursuing a new start. Isolation is so tough, i am in a better place, but with social anxiety it is tough for me to make and keep friends. Please write more and let us know how it is going for you. All the best, take care.

Hey thank you for the reply. I know exactly what you mean about making and keeping new friends. I get really excited when I meet new people and get maniac sometimes. Now when I meet someone that is cool I try and tell myself to calm down and don’t blow it. Lol I make sure I don’t interrupt them when they talk. I am just curious how you handle it when you meet new people. I will let ya know how it goes next week. Thanks and I hope you have a good week

I hope the exercise helps. Good luck.

between my depression and my social anxiety, i am scared to make a real connection with people, because i am so doubtful they will like me or so doubtful that it will go well.

Hey Manny!

C'mon! From your posts and your picture you seem like you're a likable guy!

One thing that's been mentioned several times about socializing, is "I'd like to do it, but on my own terms.." or similar..

Know the feeling. Don't dislike people, but if the group is too big or the situation is "uncontrolled" as it were, it adds a layer of stress to the proceedings. I can talk to just about anyone, but one-on-one is always easier...

Hey first day went well, I did miss the beer buzz but I got over it. Went to gym and worked out with my son. Also going to have coffee with an old friend Wednesday. The morning was rough but it’s always rough. Been on lexapro for 2 years now. But it doesn’t help. Anyway hope everyone had a good memorial day and wasn’t depressed. Lol

Good to hear! It's good that you have someone to work out with.

Can give each other gentle nudges for when it gets boring..

Snoring dog you are right is cool to have him with me. How are you doing? Do you have any kids or workout buddies?

No kids to chase around, so that's out...

No exercise partners at the moment.... Started at a new gym about 6 months ago. I actually find it nice to zone out on the machines for awhile and try to shut off the old brain...

Hardest part is getting started. Once the endorphins kick in though, it feels good.
I do need to prod myself sometimes... like Nike says "Just Do It"!