Alone...

[daisyqueen]

Recently finished yr12 and even during the last few months of the school year, I've felt alone. Second option to my best friend and like I don't know how to talk to people anymore. I've always been introverted and originating from a different country makes me feel like I'm an alien to social norms and groups, even though I've been here since I was 1.

I feel worthless and alone with everything and everyone. My family situation at home isn't good either, and I don't want to bother anyone with my issues.

I don't know how to fix my friendships because I'm so isolated and secluded in my own thoughts that I just shut down and don't talk to anyone.

I really don't know what to do 😞

[Zeal]

Hi daisyqueen,

Welcome to the forum, and well done for finishing Year 12!

I'm sorry to hear that you've been feeling especially lonely these last few months. Being introverted and lacking confidence is tough. I hugely lacked self-esteem throughout my teen years. This improved when I was 20 or 21. I am now 23, and I am no longer shy, though I still live with anxiety (but it's manageable). While I can relate to feeling lonely, everyone's situation is unique.

If you don't mind me asking, can you give an example of not fitting in? Feeling worthless is concerning, as this way of thinking can lead to depression. It's a shame that your family life isn't helping. Would you mind sharing a few details about this? Because you aren't able to talk openly to your family, it's crucial that you have a way to disclose concerns. Calling helpline numbers can at least partly satisfy this need for disclosure and verbal support. The people who answer the calls are friendly, non-judgemental and experienced in offering advice.

Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636

Kids Helpline (for 5 - 25 year olds): 1800 55 1800. Their website is helpful too: https://kidshelpline.com.au/

Because you are over 16, you can see a doctor (GP) without your parents knowing. I recommend making an appointment with a local GP soon. Talking to them about your concerns will help them decide what further support you need.

It would be great to hear back from you 🙂

Best wishes,

Zeal

[daisyqueen]

Hi Zeal,

Thank you for your reply 🙂

An example of me not fitting in is that in a group, I'm always excluded or just a pity invite. I try my best to include myself with talking or asking questions but I either just get ignored, stared at or talked over.

I've already been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, I forgot to mention in my original post. I guess it's something I've become so used to, unfortunately.

I've been thinking about going to the GP and getting a referral to see a counsellor in person, as medication works for a while, but these thoughts and feelings creep back in.

[Zeal]

Hi again daisyqueen,

Thanks for your response 🙂

It's unfortunate that you feel excluded and not properly acknowledged in your group. You are doing your best to be involved socially. You certainly sound like a kind person.

Would you go back to the GP who diagnosed you and who prescribed the medication? Getting a referral to a counsellor is an excellent option - definitely pursue this. It could make a huge difference for you.

In addition to seeing your doctor, I recommend saving these resources to your computer for reference:

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=37 (depression)

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=46 (anxiety)

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=47 (improving self-esteem)

If talking on the forum is helping, definitely keep doing so. You can keep posting back here whenever you like.

Best wishes,

Zeal

[Breezy_bree]

I may be a bit late, but I don’t know what to do my mum doesn’t have time for me, I mean every time I talk to her she says yeah or ok. With my dad he’s like all well. And at school... well I’m just falling apart I try to talk to someone and yet they don’t listen I try to stand up and speak loud but no, no one wants to listen and I’m just.. I just don’t know what to do

[daisyqueen]

I feel your pain, Breezy-bree.

I sometimes also feel like I’m not a part of my own family. My siblings are all so bubbly and they find things so easily to talk about. My mother is the same; whenever I try talk to her, it’s like I’m invisible.

I’m here if you need to talk about anything x