Depression Support Group

Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.

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all alone

engrmaxwalter323
engrmaxwalter323

I am pretty new here, i am going to be retired in a month, and the taught of being alone has constantly been my fear, and it makes me feel depressed, i have two young kids, they live with my ex wife, i have been divorced for over 5 years..


i am worried about living my life all alone as this has always been the way of life for me, grew up alone with no siblings, boarding schools, and travelling around the world with my father that was a chopper pilot. then got a job that takes me away from the normal day to day life. 


i didn't grow up like every other kid, and i have not enjoyed the normal social life, because i am a ship engineer, and i work in a cargo ship. that actually, i stay on the ship for months.


i am really worried, what my life will be like after retirement, will i be able to adjust? 

Lavender80
Lavender80
Congrats on the retirement. Welcome to DS.

I have had a few friends who retired. They had to redefine many things in their life. Particularly finding new interests and ways to meet people.

I would suggest joining some meetup groups, taking a class, starting a new hobby, or volunteering.

If you have had deep seated issues w loneliness, perhaps contact a therapist to help you work thru those issues on attachment.

Sending you positive thoughts on this new chapter of your life!
bingofuel
bingofuel
The social norm is nothing but a construct; An un-realistic assumption where happy people crowd about each other in revelry. You are about to live life the way it was meant to be lived, free from the oppression of material servitude and the constraints of time. Do the things you always meant to do but were unable. Go see the things you missed while you were on the boat! You will find that the voids will be filled. I envy you, sir.
ejwp5911
ejwp5911
Positive thoughts my friend
Bluebird20
Bluebird20
I am working still parttime and will trying to work more hours from 8/30 onward. Sometimes it got boring even though I work still. But for yourself maybe a parttime jpb in something that interests you where you will be with people would help you feel less alone or as Lavender suggested volunteering. Some people have said to me their busier after retirement. I need a job as long as I can do it for financial as well as mental health. If your religious, you can more involved your place of worship. Also, trips with groups might start up again. Explore a new town or city, whatever your interested in. They have depression groups in my area that are now meeting after the group for social stuff.
mfb
mfb
I heard a quote one time "you are never less alone when you are by yourself." I take this to simply mean that you are never alone because you have your thoughts. I know this is probably not helpful whatsoever, but I think it could help you focus on what you do have, instead of what you don't have. I would recommend that you consider reaching out to God for guidance on it. I don't know where you stand on faith but with your time alone on a ship, you certainly should have some time to understand and learn who God is through scripture. This will open you either learning ways to better understand people or make your more comfortable with your aloneness. Prayers to you!