I'm turning 27 this month, and I am keen for loneliness to not follow me into my 30's. I realise that we all will have to experience periods of loneliness, its a part of life which can be used for self-development. However, the loneliness I have been experiencing has been going on for a little more than 10 years. It's unbearable.
If I am honest, yes, I do struggle to make friends and social anxiety comes into it, but I try to avoid allowing that to take effect. It's hard, really hard, but If there is one thing I've learnt, its that life isn't supposed to be unchallenging or uncomfortable.
I do make efforts to meet people, speak over the phone, write etc. To help me cope, I regularly take part in group activities, both active and crafty. Every activity I take part in requires me to work as a part of a team. And I immensely enjoy these interactions. I do have people in my life but not many friends, probably 2 or 3 at the most. All of which I rarely see as they have their own lives.
Unfortunately, I am single and have been since I was about 18. Since then, I have had no romance or real intimacy in my life. I would love to seek a partner but know its probably not the right time for me with me in this state.
Now for the tough part for me to admit, I can easily become overwhelmed so often spend time alone. This can often result in me temporarily 'shutting off' people, and I know it's not good but I am working on it. I was abused in my younger years and has left me with difficulties of trust, but again, I'm working on that. I have many more flaws, all of which I can recognise.
What I would like to ask, is how can I learn to cope with this 'chronic' loneliness. I have my flaws, and I am working on them. Without my hobbies, I can go for weeks without having a meaningful conversation with someone. As previously mentioned, I don't want loneliness to follow me into my 30's, but I can cope with a less persistent form of it.
Do you have any coping mechanisms that I can adopt? Any suggestions are welcome.
Thank you.