Making friends when you’re depressed: It’s not easy
It’s nearly impossible to make friends when you’re depressed.
QUESTION
Hi Irene,
Throughout my life (I am now 25) I have had problems with friendships ending poorly, usually with friends betraying and/or abandoning me. This has been a contributing factor to my depression, which, in turn, makes it harder to make new friends.
I have a new best friend, my husband, and he is great, but it’s not the same as having girlfriends. I have tried to reach out to some of the women in my church–inviting them out for coffee or shopping– but no one has been receptive. I seem to be incapable of making new friends and I think my depresion therapy is stalling because of it. What else can I do?
Sincerely, Rose
ANSWER
Dear Rose,
It’s hard to make new friends (and even keep old ones) when you’re depressed so I really applaud your efforts. Depression saps your energy, turns you inward, and creates a distance between you and other people.
Focus on finding an activity or hobby that interests you, rather than on finding friends, per se. Perhaps there is a small group at your church or in your community where you can participate regularly and begin to meet people through common interests. It will give you time to get to know someone and gain some trust before you develop a friendship.
Talk to your therapist explicitly about your problem in making friends. Like depression, friendship problems are real too. Yours may be a byproduct of your depression and/or may stem from something else. He/she may be able to help you identify the underlying problem.
Many people with depression benefit from participation in a support group, such as those sponsored by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, where they can meet other people who understand because they are having similar problems. When your depression lifts, which it will with good treatment, the task of finding a good friend won’t be as formidable. You have your whole life ahead of you and plenty of time!
Warm wishes, Irene
Category: MAKING FRIENDS
Yes, depression drains your energy, hope, and drive, making it difficult to do what you need to feel better. As per my experience, Think out of the box and cultivate supportive relationships. Since you have your husband and looking forward for girlfriends, start with your relatives. Go out and have some fun. Next, go to social activities such as fun run, rock climbing, dancing and alike. I’m sure, you’ll be meeting a lot of persons.