Hi there

[Treechange]

Hi, new to the forum. I am a male over 60. Retired. I live in a non urban environment. While it is very natural, I am feeling isolated. I live alone. I have a dog. Very few friends. I have begun a mental health care plan with my doctor, on the advice of a female friend.

I try to keep my spirits up. I do some yoga and beach swimming. But there are days when I feel un motivated. Negative thoughts. I'm looking for ideas to cheer myself up. Find some contacts. Thank you.

[quirkywords]

Tree change

welcome to this supportive forums. 
I am over 60 and live in a non urban environment surrounded by trees.

I felt isolated so I did 2 things, I volunteer and Iwalk a lot.

1. I meet people while I walk and volunteer. Now that may not suit.you but there are other groups you can join that may have some activity you enjoy. 
   It is hard being isolated but it can be hard. 
   i know someone who invited a few  friends around to chat. 
   take care we are listening. 

[Mark Z.]

Hi Treechange,

I'm sorry for your challenge, but it's great that you're reaching out and seeking help. It's important to take steps to address feelings of isolation and maintain your mental well-being. I do have some tips help you feel more connected and engaged with your community:

Join local clubs or groups, or attend local events: Look for local clubs or interest groups that align with your hobbies, such as gardening, photography, or hiking. This can help you meet like-minded people and make new friends. Keep an eye out for local events, such as farmer's markets, concerts, or festivals, where you can interact with others and enjoy your community's offerings. You can find resources at local community centre.

Volunteering: A great idea to get yourself busy, connect with others and contribute to your community, which can be rewarding and fulfilling. It works perfectly for me, and brings me feelings of fulfilment and belonging.

Connect with neighbors: not sure if you have great relation with your neighbours and enjoy daily small talks with them. This is certainly worth to do.

Use technology: modern technology can help you reduce the sense of distance. Don't forget to reach out family or old friends via online video meetings. Reconnect with friends from your past, even if it has been a long time since you last spoke. They might be happy to hear from you and rekindle your friendship.

Exercise and outdoor activities: it's great that you're doing yoga and beach swimming, you can also consider incorporating other outdoor activities like hiking or cycling, or walking your dog in local parks.

Consider adopting another pet if you want and prepared: it could provide you and your dog with additional companionship and entertainment.

Hope it helps a bit. Be patient with yourself, and good luck on your journey 🙂
Mark

[jaz28]

Hi there,

Welcome to the forums, Treechange. Those are some good activities you do there! It is great to stay active. 

I am sorry you are having a tough time, and it is good that you have started your MHCP! I hope that this will help you.

Please reach out if you need help.

Jaz xx

[geoff]

Hello Treechange, feeling unmovitated is unfortunately part of the course, although you may wake up feeling as though you could do so many things for the day but then suddenly decide against it, this only means you may not be quite prepared to do them, don't take this as a negative, take it as a learning, you are just re-establishing your progress.

Friends will slowly develop over this time and let it happen naturally, if you try and push too hard, it may back-fire and that's definitely not what you want to happen.

Geoff.

Life Member.