Advice sought for depression/loneliness

[Mummoomoocow]

Hey all

I’ve been having issues with depression and mental health for years now. I’m not looking for sympathy or temporary resolve of my symptoms, I really do need however to know how do people without depression/anxiety etc deal with bouts of crippling loneliness that doesn’t end when you’re around other people?

I’m struggling to connect with anyone, including my partner and family - symptoms of said MH issues but regardless - and it seems endless. How do “normal” people reconnect when they’re having a poo time?

Hi!
I have also had MH problems of the last 20 yrs, so I know it’s not easy.
Are you on any meds? Taking them has really helped me. I don’t know how I coped before them!
Sometimes when you are struggling it’s just a time to slow down. The loneliness you feel is part of the numbness that comes with depression.
Even if you are taking meds, go back to the drs as it’s sounds like you have either, gotten used to the ones you’re on and they are not helping anymore, or, they are the wrong ones.
Don’t give up, you are surrounded by love, but you must make time for yourself and to learn to love yourself.
Pleas take care of yourself
Love 💕 and hugs 🤗

Have experienced PND and what helped was telling a few people close to me. Also trying to do things I might enjoy and might find rewarding. Even if it was small things like cook a proper meal in slow cooker.
As for connecting with people I have spent time with other mums in neighbourhood. Going to a few baby groups and my church community has helped me feel connected to others even when I wasn't feeling well/ myself. Is there any community group or activity that you do or have done in the past?

@user1486131602 I came off my long term ssri about three months ago on the advice of my doctor. While I did see an improvement in my concentration and memory, the symptoms of depression have slowly crept back in. I’m unsure if I will trudge along without them in the long term or fall back on them again soon but I certainly battled to come off them which makes me feel unsure if I would like to take them again. Thanks for reminding me they’re there if it gets too unbearable.

@applecatchers36 I have frequented many children’s centres and groups, often attending regularly. I surround myself with faces but I’m struggling with real human connection, as though everything feels like small talk and I don’t seem to be getting beyond pleasantries with anyone

I'd consider myself "normal" insofar as anyone is normal. Luckily I have never had depression or anything else which would affect my MH. Sometimes I do get that feeling of isolation, as though I'm on a different planet from everyone else, but I suppose everyone gets that, and it doesn't last long. Solutions? My dog. She's quite eccentric but loves me, stays by my side, and makes me laugh. Music also helps, playing my favourite songs loudly. Don't they say music calms the troubled soul (or some such)?