Gardening is a fantastic way to get out and get better. There have been reports that dirt has bacteria in it that actually helps alleviate depression and other things. Plus there's something to being able to shape your external world a little and help nature produce some beauty.
Although I'm not a church-goer or overtly religious person, my faith in God has provided me with great consolation during periods of being alone. I also try to remember what a friend he can be in the good times to and will talk to him with a simple thanks for maybe a great sunset or a moment without fear.
I can also relate to the radio as a friend of sorts. So much so that I bought two hand-crank radios so that no matter what happens, I'll always have that bit of distraction and interaction with the outside world. I find it better than TV, because I can be doing something and still here the chatter and songs. In case anyone is wondering Eton or Grundig makes great handcrank or solar powered radios.
And last but NOT least!!!!! The Internet, especially this forum. I can't share this anxiety and depression stuff with just anyone, even though I am very open about it. Often I'm met with a degree of empathy, but they'll never really understand as they haven't been through it. It's like before you get married and have kids. You can think you know what its all about, but you just don't until you're in the middle of it. Sorry, didn't mean to equate anxiety and depression with marriage and kids!!! LOL! But I think you get the point. If anything, I find my kids and my sweetie the anti-anxiety.
Well, remember, you might be lonely, but you're never alone. We're all pulling for each other!
