Seeking Friends, support, company and encouragement in SE QLD.

[vulnerable]

I've been through the ringer as have many of the people here writing and reading these posts.

I'm a single Dad with 50/50 care of two kids I'm aged 50 and in spite of living in Brisbane for almost 15 years I've never developed a social life especially one with mates to hang out with and talk to when life gets hard.

I feel like many of my attempts to break free of self sacrificing behaviours fail simply because I lack support and the small victories create a false sense of security that ultimately means i slip back to old habits/patterns etc.

 I really hope someone reading this has some insight into how I can form new friendships and break free of the isolation I feel.

K 

[Happylife]

Hello K,

It's never too late to reconnect. I am sure at your age, making new friends is not just about increasing your social circle but more about finding someone who shares your interests and who listens and supports, if needed.

If I may ask, have you tried joining your local club or community group? You may come across people who share your interests or hobbies. You can try attending and getting involved in local community events or join a local exercise group too.

You can also try and volunteer, that way you can give time to a cause you care about and meet like-minded people.

Also, try re-connecting with some old friends, you never know sometimes they may be very happy to hear from you.

Please be patient and persistent, as it takes time to trust and getting to know each other. Making new friends also involves being open, showing empathy and a willingness to get out of your comfort zone.

Hope this helps and I really hope you don't feel isolated.

Remember you are not alone, I am listening if you want to talk more...

Take care

Happylife

[vulnerable]

Thank you,

I still feel isolated, I desperately need mates and people to connect with.

I long for a social life formally denied by a narcissistic ex wife who destroyed my former one and inhibited my opportunity to build a new one.

I don't know where to turn to for friendship, most people have established friends and are not looking for new ones.

K