Hiya. Just over six years ago I went through a heavy time of depression, I had never felt such loneliness (even in a room full of people), the hopelessness felt more than I can bear. I didn't want to stay in the house because I felt cut off from every other soul, but I didn't want to leave the house because I would see people getting on with their lives, families having fun, couples together. I felt there was nowhere for me to go. The only way I got through it is like what other folks have said, just keep going and don't give up.
Something happened to me this year similar to what set me off six years ago, but I have not been effected by it not nearly as half as bad. I've focus my view point to look on things differently. I'm watching what thoughts enter my head and if they are not positive or uplifting I dismiss them. I said to someone at work who knows my situation the I'm being annoyingly cheerful on purpose. I found it's working and keeping depression at bay. Feels a bit like a balancing act to be honest.
I'm also pushing myself to talk to people more, I'll greet colleagues (who I don't know) who I pass by at work. In the street I'll smile at people mostly women, but not in a creepy over the top way, just a slight smile. Some just ignore me but others have smiled back (which is very uplifting). On a morning walking to work I'll say good morning to people I pass and they reply. I don't do it often but whenever I get the bus I always get a day ticket so you can get on any bus to any place as many times as you want for that day. Once I'm done with the ticket I make a purpose of going past bus stops to give it to someone else. I always aim for women (again
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and politely greet them, explain about the ticket and that I don't need it anymore and would they like it to save some cash. Some already have tickets but they still grateful. Someone always takes it in the end, and I always refuse any money offered for it.
I have found myself being as helpful and cheerful to people, more than normal. I find it helps to keep the darkness out. I would say that helping others is one of the best painkillers for a grieving heart. That's just my experience and where I'm at.