What I use to do is talk to myself and pretend I was two different people which helped enormously.

I recommend joining other groups that are more active. Write posts or reply to posts already written and get to know other members. Make friends here by sending out friend requests to those you have things in common with.

Hi Echo and welcome! I have lonely times because I live alone. I wake up hours before I can text anyone. I write in a diary on my computer which is sort of like a friend. At night, I go on YouTube and watch trials or medical videos depending on what's going on with my health. Do you work? If not, can you? That would open up your world some.

Hi, EITF. It is difficult to deal with loneliness. Y:ou have taken the first steps to relieve some of your painful feelings. Try taking small steps. Maybe go to a local coffee shop or bookstore. Try to frequent them. Maybe strike up a conversation when you feel confident. Start a gratitude journal where you write three things you are grateful for everyday. My door is always open to new DS friends

Hi Echo
I also experience that feeling of raw loneliness--feeling disconnected from other people. I am fortunate enough to live with my husband and grown son, but, still there are times when I feel such aloneness. Getting out for even a short while can sometimes help. I don't know where you live, but here in the northeast, it has been cold and snowy. It's hard to propel yourself to get out. Is there anyone that you can talk to by phone. There are a few warm lines in my state, which seem to be addressing the loneliness epidemic. I love to talk by phone or chat. I will send you a friend request. I have been a part of a group called Joined at the Heart for many years (not a ds group). Just feeling that sense of being a part of something more than oneself can relieve the sense of being alone. : )

I would try going out if I could (I am paralysed and housebound). Even shopping or sitting on aa park bench you might meet someone who wants to talk. Are there any clubs of interest to you?

Hello again. Hope you are feeling better. Remember to reach out anytime. Do you have any hobbies? Interests? Music, cooking, reading, etc. Anyway just checkin in with you today.

How are you feeling today, Echo? How I cope when I am feeling lonely is to get busy and do something physical. Go outside and walk or do a chore outside. Sometimes I have gone to the grocery store and walked each aisle with my cart and on purpose said hello to each person I go past on the aisle. Try that. Make eye contact and say hello or good morning to each person in the grocery store. Some will not make eye contact (since the pandemic people are more isolated and not making eye contact nor saying hello). But do it anyway. Smile at people also. Tell the checker thank you and say something friendly to him or her. When I am feeling lonely is it because I am disconnected from other human beings. Or when I am doubting myself. Hugs to you.