Alone for weeks now and feeling so down today.

[Petals23]

I live alone and have done for 20 years. My boyfriend lives an hour away and my parents and brothers an hour away in the other direction. Not working due to the lockdown. I usually love walking and try to get out every day, but today I'm having a really bad day and can't summon the energy to do anything. I'm also feeling anxious, which I think has become exacerbated by being alone the last 5 weeks. My boyfriend sees close family, who he doesn't live with, every day for a walk and when he rings me and tells me this I just find it hard.

Please tell me I'm not the only one feeling like this.

You aren’t. Lockdown, and the lack of work / socialising has made my depression feel a bit worse. However, as horrible as it feels, get up and get out. It’s the only thing that seems to help.

I'll get lynched for this, but could you arrange to walk in the same place as either your boyfriend or your family one day, and walk at a safe distance? I saw two people obviously meet up at the supermarket the other evening, a mother and daughter. They were so happy to see each other.

I walk my dog every day and sometimes chat to other walkers, from a safe distance. What's the difference?

I don't live alone so can only sympathise with your current situation. But I know during my numerous bouts of depression, staying in the house has only made it worse. Do try and get out of the house if you can. Even if all you can manage is something small like going round the block. Fresh air and exercise do help get the seratonin levels up. Just start slowly, but try and step out of the front door.

I'm with you, op. It's TOUGH being on your own through this

That's not to say it's not difficult for everyone, in different ways, of course.

I'm finding different places to walk to vary it up a bit xx

Hey OP. I'm not in the same boat as you but can totally empathize. It's a really shit situation we're in at the moment. Are you able to do some virtual catch ups with people so you can see them face to face ish? Things like Facetime, Zoom, Houseparty are all great.

Also, do make sure you're getting out for some fresh air every single day. Have you tried listening to some audio books or podcasts? They might help with feeling like theres someone else there.
Hang in there. You're not alone. X

Hi Op. Hope you are ok. Just remember this is temporary and it wont last forever. Sorry you are having a bad day