I agree with angelwallace's message above. Push yourself to get out there and do things, volunteer if you have to, because once you are putting yourself out there, you're occupied and your feelings of loneliness will ease. Once I volunteered teaching 2nd graders how to read. It was a wonderful experience on top of keeping me busy. They were SO cute!! Another time I volunteered teaching seniors how to use the computer . There's many things to keep you busy as far as volunteering goes, AND it gets you out!

First off, stop comparing yourself to " everyone else". If we all fit into s mold thisworld would be a whole different place. We are all unique and by you seeing how "everyone else" is, you are seeing yourself up for failure. We are individuals and deal and handle situations differently. What you need to see is that others see something in you that you aren't able to. Otherwise why invite you anywhere? And after you turn down so many invitations you will stop getting them. Then you will feel there is something wrong with you . force yourself to small events. Hell, even big ones. You are in the prone of your life and unless you are going to be a life long student, these days will disappear fast. Another thing to remember is your college days don't dictate your future. If your afraid of doing something silly, it isn't going to follow you forever. You will have to get out of what you are comfortable with. Make yourself do things you didn't think you would do. You can't relive these days. Make the most of them so you have no regrets. I think your focusis so strong on everyone else, you are seeing those parole trying to bring you in to that realm. You don't had to lose your identity, but you will have to take chances in order for change to happen. Don't be afraid to try. You might find out it was the beset decision you ever made

Absolutely I've felt out of place most of my life. I've learned in my older age to find people who need support and they welcome you in. Hugs and peace.

Hi,

Just checking in to see how you are doing. Are you feeling any better since you wrote your message?

Thank you so much to each of you for your supportive messages. All of the support really means a lot to me.

angelwallace - That you put yourself out there, even when it's not easy, really inspires me. It sounds like you've gotten involved in many things out of your comfort zone - perhaps I will make a list of some ways I could do the same.

Maria718 - I love the suggestion about volunteering - I do really think that giving to others is the best way to help yourself as well. Definitely something I hope to do soon once I can muster up the energy (and courage) to do so.

Scaredandafraid - You're so right about the comparing - I seem to get into that trap a lot. Thank you for reminding me that, and for reminding me that I must take chances and risks to move forward.

harrisbaby - thank you for letting me know I am not alone - I am glad you've been able to reach out to others.

txlw123 - thank you so much for checking in. I've still been struggling - with a couple things (depression, eating disorder, pressure I put on myself to perform at school/work), but the loneliness is a big piece of it. I have just felt very needy lately too, like I do not want to be alone, and yet I find myself alone so much of the time. I hope to not feel this way forever. Seeing your message this morning, wondering how I've been, made me feel cared about, and I appreciate that very much. Thank you.