How do I Find the Confidence to Socialize After Depression?
Depression is a mental illness that makes it difficult to enjoy life. According to the Mental Health America website, "Stigmatization of people with mental disorders leads to low self-esteem, isolation and hopelessness." Therefore, it can be difficult for a person who is recovering from depression to find the confidence to socialize, despite the fact that having a positive social support network helps relieve and prevent depression.
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Instructions
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Building Confidence
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Locate a support group for depression sufferers near you. If you need help finding a local support group, try the Depression and Bipolar Alliance group finder to help you locate one. (Link available in references.)
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Go to your support group and start talking to people who are dealing or have dealt with depression. Try to become friends with some of the people you meet there. Talk to as many people as you can. Get back in the habit of socializing comfortably. In this way, your support group can help you build the confidence to socialize again in a safe, understanding environment. According to the Depression and Bipolar Alliance website, support groups can "Help you rediscover strengths and humor you may have thought you had lost."
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Start socializing outside of your support group. Start by going out and doing things with people whom you feel confident and comfortable around. This could be members of your support group, close friends or family members. With one or more of these supportive people in your presence, gradually begin socializing with other people the way you would have before you became depressed.
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Begin socializing without the support of people with whom you are close. Put yourself in social situations where you are likely to meet people. Strike up conversations and participate in conversations that people start with you. Getting acclimated to social situations and succeeding in them proves that you are capable of social interaction without the stigma of mental illness. Therefore, it will help you build the confidence you need to have a healthy social life.
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Maintain the healthy relationships that you form. Remove yourself from negative relationships. Negative relationships may cause you to lose confidence and even slip back into depression. Healthy, positive relationships will help you maintain confidence.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are unhappy with your support group, or it is not helping you, search for another support group. Do not give up.
Take as much time as you need to feel comfortable socializing. Do not force yourself if you feel highly uncomfortable.
If you have a doctor who was/is treating you for depression or helping you prevent further depression, keep him updated on your progress and setbacks.
It may take some time for you to build confidence. Do not be discouraged if this is the case.
You may find it difficult to rid yourself of unhealthy relationships.
You may face a few setbacks before you are successful.
