So lonely,what can I do ?

[tamaris]

I have no family , I am on my own. I have recently retired and and the days are so long. I spend so much time on my own I think I am going crazy some days. I have joined things, but every one seems to have their own lives. I dont come over as miserable as I keep cheerful in the company of others, but I get so down these days as my work was my life.

[Hopkirk]

Get a job in the local shop or petrol station.

[jno]

I'd try to do more walking - the things that get you out of the house rather than things like reading that just give you time at home to fret. You do have an extra 40 hours or so to fill, so it's a big change (been there), and it won't happen all at once.

Any big projects you'd enjoy taking on, like building the Eiffel Tower out of matches or walking Hadrian's Wall? Something that involves planning and preparation as well as doing? Things like that give your mind something to do.

[Laelia]

Hi tamaris,
look in your local library for stuff going on ... local groups ect. Also your local council website will have lots of information too! x

[naomi24]

What about taking a course at the local college? A new interest perhaps? Or how about becoming a volunteer at your local hospital?

[tamaris]

Seen doc and yes I am depressed but TBH they can only give you tablets and I still do not have any one close to confide in

[pastafreak]

There may be a service in your area that matches volunteers skills and interests with organisations that need help. If you belong to a church,they may also have charities they work with.

[bibblebub]

If you are interested in voluntary work then try googling voluntary work and include your location in the search. You might find that there is a nearby centre which holds details of the various roles available in your area.

[Psybbo]

Could you offer to dog walk in your local paper?

[bensmum]

There are many ways of volunteering besides charity shops. Most animal rescue places need help with looking after the animals, dog walking etc. (if you like animals that is). Most councils will have connections to a volunteer register - you can sign on there and there are all sorts of opportunites nowadays. Does your local newspaper have a talking newspaper for partially sighted people? They often need readers if so.

[Mamyalynne]

All the above suggestions are valid, however when we find ourselves alone for long periods - retirement in your case, bereavement in others, you need to learn to enjoy your own company. As well as joining social groups or maybe night classes to learn a new skill, there are lots of ways to fill the days and nights.

[sandyRoe]

And while it wouldn't get you out of your home, there's nearly always someone here in AB to chat to.

[woofgang]

tamaris, the tablets help! Not sure what is available where you live but my surgery has just begun to offer direct access to counselling services as well. Have you asked the GP about counselling?

[boxtops]

See if there's a local amateur drama club, join that - even if you don't fancy going on stage, they always need people to help make costumes, sell tickets, make tea etc - it's huge fun, I did that when I first moved to Kent and didn't know a soul. All ages get involved!

[cathfromsaron]

yes everyone does have their own lives, as do you when you shut your front door! making friends and acquaintances takes time!

i would give different voluntary work or education/training courses another go!

also, WI and WRVS are very welcoming!

cath x

[woofgang]

All the above suggestions are valid, however when we find ourselves alone for long periods - retirement in your case, bereavement in others, you need to learn to enjoy your own company. As well as joining social groups or maybe night classes to learn a new skill, there are lots of ways to fill the days and nights.
So true.

[tamaris]

had councilling it helped but it is back to ormal when it ends

[sherrardk]

Would someone like the WI interest you - that would combine doing stuff and meeting up with other people.

[TWR]

Hi Tamaris, if you hold a Drivers Licence volunteer work would suit you, either running persons to hospital ( Paid) Local yellow pages ( Paid) what about your Family tree? that will take your time off things, you can also help in that department, you can obviously use the PC there are people on there looking for friends / relatives that's a very rewarding hobby, what was your work? can you not go back there part time? running errands for your local elderly? they might want some jobs doing if you are DIY Person.

[tamaris]

I just feel like I want to belong and do a good turn at the same time