I wish I knew. I always felt those I let in my life, gave chances to and tried so very hard to have friendships with always let me down, especially at the darkest times.

I am alone now too.

Although I'm not bipolar, I've been to a local group moderated by a doctor. It's a bit like group therapy and bonds are formed. People can also show how getting on the right meds has helped them.

My message is getting into a support group. There's something called NAMI which could be in your area. In a real pinch, this may sound odd, but I'd go sit in on an open AA meeting. Have you ever consumed alcohol and it didn't work for you?

It can be challenging to make friends even without mh diagnosis... i feel for you. for me, i have to force myself to do something in the community... literally force. i also make friends online too and that helps. support groups can help. we have a great healing arts community... lots of diverse people there who "get" it. introverts...misfits (so called)...and so on. check in your area if that resonates.

we are here!

and, so sorry about your friend.

So, it's hard to make friends even when you don't have issues getting in the way.
This is something everybody can relate to.
And, even if this question has been asked, it's never been asked by you. That's part of what this group is about.
The other part...well it's been done and we'll. To offer up a few suggestions to help you.
It is always hard to lose a friend...for whatever reason.
But, life goes on. And so do you. (Yes, I can be a little harsh. Truthful but harsh) Get involved in something. Find a group of people with similar likes and join them. You never know...a new friend might be waiting there. And don't expect the first group to contain a friend. Sometimes this takes time.
Remember, Moses (in the bible) spent forty years thinking he was somebody; forty years learning he was nobody; and forty years discovering what God can do with a nobody.
(Dwight L. Moody)

Lets connect! I'll be a long distance friend.

Welcome to DS and this group.

I am not saying you do any of the following. I don't know you and I don't assume anything about you.

First of all, Bipolar is vastly misunderstood. Especially unmanaged Bipolar. Same goes for MDD.

Second of all, we need to know what to expect from a 'friendship. I have been a 'community leader' in this group for over 10 years. I frequently see people with 'serious' depression asking 'why doesn't my family understand', and "why do my friends tell me to just snap out of it".

The following is just my opinion: A 'friend' can't be someone who is weighted down by the problems of another friend. It gets tiresome, is frustrating, and discerning. Family cannot 'cure' depression, Bipolar, Cancer, or any other such thing. Nothing wrong with informing friends/family of 'problems'. Just be sure you are not giving them the ownership of the problems.

With health issues, best to make your Doctor your friend. He/she is trained and expects to take a lot of responsibility for your health problems.

Again, when I say 'you', I mean it conversationally.

This is not rocket science. Friendships and good relationships thrive on good times and harmony. Life is hard and it's OK to share but burdening a friendship can kill it.

Back now to you personally. Make sure your Bipolar and Major Depressive Disorder are effectively treated. Project a friendly, trustworthy, (blah blah) image. Nourish friendships rather than compromise them with doldrum.

Everything I have said is only my opinion. You are free to agree, partially agree, or reject any of it.

I too, am sorry for your loss. I hope you can complete your grief soon and have a more comfortable life.