Social anxiety on the other side of the world!

[Faye2412]

Hey everybody!

This is my first time posting in here, so hello to you all!

I am currently living in Australia a whole world away from my family and friends back home in England. This is my second year in Australia. My first year was full of fun, friendships, a great social life and travelling where my anxiety was all under control. This year however is extremely different. I have no friends and in constantly inbetween new jobs and houses. I’ve found it extremely hard to meet people and make friends since moving out of a hostel where I used to live. I have my amazing partner, however my anxiety prevents me from wanting to spend time with him and his friends. I also want to be able to have my own friends, I often just feel like the tag a long girlfriend who has no friends. I also have no hobbies! I’m meant to be out here living my dream, instead I’m watching other living the dream that I want.

I have tried so many jobs which aren’t working out, therefore I don’t have much money, I have to rely on my partner. Each day I spend waiting for bed time so I can sleep and forget about how anxious and sad I’m feeling. I’m always alone.

I know to make me feel better I need some friends, a social life and a good I come. Where do you meet friends and how?

Ive always had such a good social life but ive really let anxiety get in the way this time and let it take control of me!

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

please share similar experiences and ways I can get my life back!

🙂

[Doolhof]

Hi Faye 2412,

Welcome to the community here. A few years ago we moved to the country after living in the city. I had found it easier enough to have friends in the city, but harder in the country to meet new people in a smallish town.

I joined different groups and started to volunteer in places I would never have considered while living elsewhere. I made some new friends that way.

I had to step out of my comfort zone, not easy when you have mental health issues.

You mentioned a hostel, are there hostels close to where you live now? Could you become a part of that lifestyle again? A friend recently applied as a cleaner/caretaker in a hostel to enjoy the company of others.

Do the male friends of your boyfriend have girlfriends? Can you try to get to know some of them better? Asking people all about themselves is usually a good start. Some people love talking about themselves.

In some areas there are MEET UP groups (so I have heard) you might find something you are interested in attending.

Are you receiving any help or assistance to deal with your anxiety? It can be difficult to do things when you are feeling anxious.

Cheers for now from Dools