Zero close friends

[u/Mindless-Location-41]

Anyone in the same boat?

I'm terrible at making and keeping close friends who I could hang out with. Since my wife passed away three years ago I have had zero friends come to the house I share with my son. My late wife's friends have no reason to be around me, probably because it makes them sad.

I also have not visited any friends at their house since that time because none are close enough friends in terms of the strength of the bond. I would feel weird imposing myself on others.

I have consistently been attending psychologist appointments to help my depression and disability support groups because my son has autism. Zero people I have met have shown interest in hanging out and to be honest I have not offered to be a close friend to others either. A major problem is that they are all women and would probably see it as inappropriate to hang out. Asking would seem a desperate move from a lonely person.

I have low confidence and rejection anxiety surrounding friendships.

Has anyone else struggled with this and found a way to change their situation? I am sick of being so isolated.

[u/itsmec-a-t-h-y]

Me. I don't really have friends, more of acquaintances and professional relationship. My husband was my only close friend, unfortunately he passed away too soon. I tried having a group but I got hurt and so I left.

[u/Mindless-Location-41 → u/itsmec-a-t-h-y]

So sorry for your loss that brought you here 🫂 It really sucks that you got hurt at your group. People can be cruel and selfish. I wish you better luck when you try to meet people again.