Lonely 24/7 - causes?

From the perspective of someone with neurodiversity this feeling isn't uncommon. I used to spend a lot of time and energy 'masking' wanting to present a more acceptable version of myself. Doing this 24/7 meant that no one knew the real me, leading to isolation and disconnect, even in public spaces.

When I researched, reflected and connected the dots. Eventually I opened up and made meaningful connections. I hope this helps you.

I have made some for sure - thank you for your reply and also knowing it is not uncommon

Hey there @Tasmania5454 and welcome to the Forums 🌻

Loneliness can feel so heavy, hey? And it sounds like this might be something bigger for you than not just having anyone to hang out with - since you did that today, and are still feeling lonely ☹️

I think it's awesome that you've come here to talk about this! Finding people who you can relate to is definitely one way to help with loneliness. I hope that you can feel a bit of that connection here on Sane.

I wonder what ideas you have already about why you're feeling this way? Maybe you are missing a sense of closeness with your friends? Or maybe you are wanting some different types of relationships than what you already have? Or maybe you've just been feeling low overall? There are lots of reasons for loneliness. The community here could help you explore this a little more if you'd like to share 💙

These pages have some ideas to get you started:

• How to connect when you feel alone - The SANE Blog
• Understanding Loneliness | Lifeline

I hope to see you around the Forums! Don't be a stranger 😊

- Bandicoot

Hello Bandicoot, thank you for your reply.

I guess I am missing a deeper connection as yes I do have firends/family - work around and witn people, go to church etc -

I have no other comment/explanation.

Unsure how to find/develop a deeper connection if this is what is missing -

I can only keep putting myself out in the community and hope - until then, what suggestions may you have?

Well I was lovingly connected to this chat forum, so this is definitely a way to help keep connecting with humans, whether it is a once of reply, my reply to another or understanding from others who have a similar issue, or have experienced a similar issue. Turns out what I have is very common 🙂

Hey @Tasmania5454 thanks for replying with a bit more context! What you're saying makes a lot of sense.

Building deep connections comes natural to some people. But for many others - it's a skill to learn and practice. 

It sounds like you're already in a great position to start practicing some of this stuff. Finding places where you can meet with others regularly is often half the struggle! But you're clearly someone who already has a presence in your community 😊

I like the tips in this page: How to Be a Better Friend and Deepen Your Friendship Circle.

It's also possible you're already doing all those things. In that case, maybe this is a sign to keep joining new groups and find people who make all this stuff feel easier. 

Feel free to keep updating us all on this journey 💚 Like you said, you're not alone in feeling this way. 

Hello @Tasmania5454 

Glad to meet you here. @bandicoot has made some great suggestions. 

Lonliness is hard to explain to people who believe that being alone and actually feeling lonely are not the same thing.

I hope you feel welcome and understood as best one can understand another's world.

Please keep posting and allowing fellow sufferers to share support, challenges and victories ✌️ 

@Griffness @