Does little or no social interaction cause depression?

Hi there,

I am currently 19 years old taking classes at my local community college and I recently been discharged by the military (fulfilled my obligation on a national call to service contract -18 months). I really do not have any friends at all as many of my former friends went seperate ways. I find it really depressing when I see many others in relationships or have many friends. I've been having suicidal thoughts which is completely stupid as I am still young and I know I have my whole life ahead, but I feel like the only thing that keeps me going in my life are good grades at my community college (I accumulated a 4.0 GPA so far). I live in a really small town which is populated by many older folks...so I can't really join clubs, or get into "group activities" so it's pretty much hard to find anybody to hang out with. Any suggestions/advice on what to do? because i'm tired of being a loner on over the weekends.

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR SERVING OUR COUNTRY-WE LOVE AND APPRECIATE OUR FREEDOM AND YOUR SERVICE.

Maybe a counsellor could help you out. Make sure to get out and exercise and get some sun (as this naturally helps depression)-if all that gets overwhelming see if your doctor can help you out. Attempt to make conversation while waiting for the professors to come in, try to make lunch plans, etc with those who converse with you. Maybe you could help others who are struggling-maybe start a study group. I'm sure there are others who need social interaction as well. I was 21, married with a toddler when I decided to go back to school-I tryed to find those who were simular to me-married with kids-and busting A** to make a better way for the kids. Maybe by opening up, you might find another Vet-who has been there done that. Don't give up trying.
Consider joining Tae Kwon Do, or some other marital arts-you could make some friends there too and help the self esteem as well. Church can be good too.

Hmmm....maybe you could talk to people on Myspace. Just be careful.

yepppp. u get bored. u need to ineract with people.

I actually prefer little or no social interaction. I have many things I want to do and don't like to give up the time to socialize. However, if you are not happy without socializing, then that would be different. yes, you are too young to think of ending your life. please don't do it. I just lost my brother that way and it has hurt me and my family so much. when you are finished with your education, maybe you could move to a larger community where you can meet more people your age. having many many friends is a drain on your time and you can't really get to a deep friendship if you have to spread yourself so thin. you really only need one or two good friends and some acquaintances. And you will find a relationship too...just may not be the right time yet. My thoughts are with you...you will be ok. Now you are lucky because you have lots of time and freedom. If you need to fill that time with something, perhaps you could volunteer to help other people.

Hello :)
Please don't think about suicide, it is never the answer. From what you've describe it's sounds like you're better off than you think. 4.0 is a great GPA and combined with your military experience, you'll get into a great 4 year college. That will open many doors for you in terms of friends and career. In the meantime, why not call up your old friends just to catch up? Just say, "Hey, I'm back. What have you been up to? Wanna grab some lunch? Coffee?" Or you can try meetup.com. You can find people in your area with common interests or start your own group. Getting a part time job is also a good idea. It keeps you busy and you get to know your co-workers. Many of my old co-workers have become very good friends of mine. I know how hard it can be. I also have a difficult time making new friends. But hang in there! It'll get better!! Good Luck!

I understand what you are going through . I have gone through the same.

I believe sometimes its good to take a trip outside your hometown .

If you and your family can go out it wil be best.

Try getting hold of a hobby

Play a sport and find friends online with your interest .

You will be fine.

Remember everyone goes through a rough phase and all this is temporary and it will be over soon . After one year from today you will be laughing at this day or may be you wont even remember this day.

No Suicide your bright am sure when you grow up you will have friends

I dont have friends too.

Do you wish to be my friend?

I am from Sydney . email me on wheredoibegin_luvstory@yahoo.co.uk