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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Any solutions for people with depression to meet new friends?

    Related Topics
    Depression Mental Health Relationships
    My sister suffers from anxiety & depression. It's hard to know how to help her as I don't suffer from the same thing. She really wants to make some friends, possibly even for a relationship. Her anxiety & depression make it hard for her to venture out to do this. Can you offer any places, Internet sites, etc where she may be able to meet some new people? Possibly even others with anxiety or depression so that she has someone who understands her feelings?
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  • Julie Wilson

    Psychologist

    Psychologist, Family Therapist and Dog Therapy handler who is passionate about working with individuals, families and couples of all ages who are experiencing disordered eating. … View Profile

    The world can become incredibly small when you experience depression and anxiety. It is really hard to meet people when you are feeling really low, and terribly anxious about doing so. It can sometimes feel like you are the only one who is having difficulties. It is wonderful that your sister has enlisted your support to help her as you can use your networking skills to gather a huge diversity of ideas. 

    Here are a couple of ideas that might be helpful, although not specifically for people experiencing anxiety or depression, they can be a away to get out and meet other people.
    Generally a point of contact would be your local council, as your local community health service may have links to social groups, for people who get together on outings or activities. 
    If your sister is interested in smaller groups, local libraries, or the CAE, organise book clubs which include membership in groups and books that can be great to meet others with similar interests. This could also include classes offered by your neighbourhood house - such as yoga, dance, or art. It's amazing how many friendships can be struck in these weekly classes. 

    If you are searching for more specific groups for depression and anxiety, Beyond Blue  offer links to organisations that may offer support groups
    http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=106

    such as
    ARC Vic, Anxiety Recovery Centre, who offer localised support groups:
    http://www.arcvic.org.au/arcvic-support-groups

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  • JayeL

    HealthShare Member

    I know how your sister feels, it's very hard & i quite often don't feel as though I'd be a very good friend so why bother. Yoga & meditation though are also good starting classes, I have found through them I learn ways to help me but I also meet people who are there for similar reasons. Encourage your sister even to get onto this site, I've already found reading other people's stories is giving me reassurance that I'm not alone with my feelings. Good luck :) 

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    Thanks

    Kristen Ross

    Counsellor, Kinesiologist

    Kristen Ross is a qualified Kinesiologist, Counsellor and Sports Therapist.Affinity Wellness is her holistic wellness practice offering a holistic wellness experience by focusing on all … View Profile

    I agree with Lane's suggestion, meetup.com is a great way for people to connect with others who have similar interests in your local area. I have refered a number of clients to the website many who have found groups and people they have been able to connect with. Remember these are not support groups but interest groups. 

    Best Wishes

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