Loneliness is killing me and I don't know how to fix it

Feb 281 min read

I'm home with the kids most days but I feel incredibly lonely. I don't have close guy friends in this area and the parent groups I've tried feel superficial. I love my kids but sometimes I need actual adult conversation about something other than developmental milestones. My wife tries to help but she's got her own stuff going on. I'm starting to think the loneliness is feeding into my anxiety. How do other dads find community and real connection?

7 comments245 views

Comments(7)

MManuelRegularMar 2

I get this feeling, especially when you're home all day. Being physically surrounded by kids doesn't fill the void of actual adult connection. Have you looked into any dad groups or meetups in your area?

TTravis N.RegularMar 1

This hits different. You're home but isolated which is honestly worse than being alone. Try joining a dad group or even a hobby group where other dads show up. It helps.

JJayRegularMar 2

Man, I feel this hard. Being home with a kid all day is different from being lonely around other adults. Have you tried any local dad groups or parks where you can just chat with other dads while the kids play? Even 15 minutes of real conversation helps me some days.

MMike R.New DadFeb 28

This hits different when you're the primary caregiver. I started going to the gym early before my wife gets up just to be around other adults. It sounds simple but having that time and space changed everything for my mental health.

RRobertRegularFeb 28

Being with kids all day is not the same as having connection. Look for dad groups, parks with other stay at home parents, or even online communities like this one. You're not alone in feeling this way.

DDanNew DadFeb 28

Loneliness is real and you're not alone in feeling it. Have you looked into any parenting groups or even just online communities where you can connect with other dads going through the same thing? Sometimes just knowing other guys are struggling with the same stuff helps.

MMike R.New DadMar 1

Loneliness while parenting is real and it sucks. The hardest part is that everyone assumes you're not alone because you have kids around. You need actual adult friendships, not just parent small talk.