New friendships during crisis.

[Itsallpointless]

During this isolation period, I have continued to work (key worker) albeit around at home a lot more (community worker).

Am I the only person who hasn't really made any new friendships during this crisis? Yes I've spoken to neighbours far more, and yes I've spoken to neighbours I never did before, but I've not had 'friends' crawling out of the woodwork, clamouring to rekindle lost relationships.

I have issues with low self esteem and unworthiness, and this period of time has magnified the reality of being alone, and how few friendships I have. Are any others still as 'friendless' as they were prior to the crisis?

Very sorry to hear you’re feeling like that. I’ve had times where I’ve felt like that and when I’ve reflected I realised I haven’t be very good at being the first one to reach out and get in touch with friends I haven’t seen for a while. Why don’t you try reaching out rather than the other way around? They might be feeling the same 🙂

If not I highly recommend once restrictions have lifted joining a social group. I’ve joined a few over the last few years and have two groups of friends that are constantly in touch over lockdown.

I've not made any new friends not rekindled any. But I'm not the best at friendships and I have come to accept that

Unfortunately if you don’t put effort into friendships you may not get much back. I learned this after a few friends faded out and now have to make a conscious effort to keep in touch with friends more and cherish them and they do the same in return. Friendships are two way 🙂

Thanks for your replies..

I do understand the effort required, I guess I have an issue with rejection. Why would anyone want to hear from me?

I do have friends who are regularly in touch, I have known them a long time though. This is more about new friends that have been 'found' during this common situation we all find ourselves in.

It is harder to find friends as you get older (fifties) but I will try to reach out a bit more, I'm sure the rejection is not because I'm not likeable, it's purely down to circumstances.