depression help: I have a few problems.. - Help.com

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you can be sociable without relying on drugs or alcohol. one question, did you ever consider talking to a therapist about this? maybe you have a mental blockage…

I felt the same way a few years ago…But I joined an activity(band, not too social) and basically forced myself to talk to people. After that, everything started to get easier and more natural. I’m still not extremely social, there are only a select few people I actually like to be around for a prolonged period of time, and I prefer being alone most days to anything else. Just trust me though, things will get better if you try and make yourself talk and socialize with others, suicide is never the answer for anything.
And while alcohol and drugs may help, they also hurt you a lot. People get more depressed while on either in some scenarios so you really shouldn’t rely on those. I hope everything gets better and goes well for you, nothing is ever completely hopeless until you decide it is or give up.

Try this very simple exercise. When you next go out, practice smiling at people. You don’t need to talk or do anything else. Just smile and make sure you look at people when you smile. Try 1 person first and aim for as many as possible on subsequent days.

This is a really good and effective way to get you to get used to people without having to interact with them. You will see different and very interesting responses from people. You will actually end up enjoying people.

When you do this, and feel you actually made progress please come back, cause I have more tips :-)

Seriously, if you can get them fixed that would be a huge confidence boost for you.

“I feel like I know what I need to do to fix things and get back on track but its all going to take time”

I am quite sure of that. You have to start with the little things that you really can easily control. I know you say you can’t afford it right now but do whatever it takes to get your teeth sorted. Smiling is your window to the world. It tells people you are approachable and friendly, it will give you confidence and power to conquer the way you feel about everything. Save up, borrow money just do something and stop the excuses and delaying it. I will not tell you any other tips until you do this one :-) anyway, the other tips won’t work if you don’t master the art of smiling to win people over!

Its so important to get them done. I hope you will take this advice.