I suffered from depression in high school too. It was very hard. Getting a job did help me. But as I got older my depressions got worse. I isolated myself a lot . Friends came and went. Very few could deal with my illness. I am 59 now. Had one child. Am divorced. You sound like you are doing some good things . Keep going and I think you will have a better handle on this than I had. 😊

I'm not sure if it's an option for you or not, but as a 17 year old I dropped from public high school and am homeschooled now (which cut off basically all my friends but a few) and I just got a job a few days ago and I'm already more social than I've been in months. I don't know your situation well but going to groups or places where you have to communicate with others is definitely a good start! (:

@A MyDepressionTeam Member good for you to keep trying what frightens you-keep up the good work

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A MyDepre...

Sounds like little brother is on to something, I also have trouble taking to people always have however some days are easier than others. Sounds like you are on the right track friend.

I have a lot of problems with social situations and with making and keeping friends. My little brother is also bipolar and to watch him is amazing! He engages with absolutely everyone everywhere! He almost always makes them laugh or at least smile! He talks to the checker at Walmart, asking where they are going to college or what their favorite activity after a long day there is. I wish I could be more like him, but I am just not as easy talking to others. I have learned to keep trying though! I generally feel better if I go out than is I stay in and if I can make someone smile or laugh it makes me feel good! How else can we meet people who may become a friend than to engage with people we don't know? Also, I now know I have pushed many people away with my feelings of fairness and give and take that weren't really realistic. That being said, I am pretty friend poor right now and I am attempting to meet more people myself! I started volunteering at the animal shelter. My brothers idea to volunteer your time! Good luck and please let me know how you are doing!