Depression is making me withdraw from friends | DadHQ

Depression is making me withdraw from friends

3w ago1 min read

My buddies keep texting asking to hang out and I just don't have the energy to respond half the time. When I do see them I can barely laugh at jokes that would normally kill me. Had to cancel on game night last week and I could tell they were frustrated but I just couldn't do it. Feels like I'm letting everyone down but leaving the house feels impossible some days. I know they mean well but also just want to be left alone.

5 comments166 views

Comments(5)

CChristopher M.New Dad2w ago

I get this. The energy thing is real and it's hard to explain to friends why you just can't seem to show up even when you want to. Have you thought about talking to someone about the depression? Because that withdrawal can become a cycle that makes things worse.

DDanielRegular3w ago

Hey man, I hear you. With a newborn I'm barely keeping it together some days and just responding to texts feels impossible sometimes. Your friends care about you so maybe just be honest with them that you're going through it right now.

RRichardRegular3w ago

Depression makes everything harder, even the stuff you normally enjoy. Don't beat yourself up about not having energy for your buddies right now. If it keeps going though, might be worth talking to someone about it.

CChris M.Regular2w ago

Depression making you isolate is classic but it's also a trap because isolation usually makes it worse. Your buddies texting you is actually a good sign. Even if you don't have the energy, maybe try responding with just a simple 'Hey man, rough week but thanks for checking in.' That's enough.

CChris M.Regular2w ago

The withdrawal thing is a symptom and not a character flaw. When I was dealing with this I realized I was isolating myself because I felt like I had nothing to contribute or like I'd just bring everyone down. But my friends wanted to see me anyway. Maybe start small, like a quick coffee instead of a whole evening out.