Loneliness is stronger when not alone

Re:Loneliness is stronger when not alone by alpaca128 on Tuesday June 20, 2023 @11:28AM (#36405408)

I disagree, most people have no idea how to deal with a depressed person and the need for a therapist does not necessarily mean a lack of friends. I go to the dentist to fix my teeth and that doesn't mean my friends aren't supportive.

I'd say "go talk to a professional" is more or less the only useful advice one can give there.

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Re:Loneliness is stronger when not alone by vanviegen on Tuesday June 20, 2023 @11:53AM (#36405900)

Is it? Or is it just the safe thing to say without sticking one's neck out?

I'd wager many depressed people would benefit from interacting with people who are not their psychiatrist.

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Re:Loneliness is stronger when not alone by alpaca128 on Wednesday June 21, 2023 @08:03AM (#36417383)

It may be beneficial for some, but not everyone. Also a large part of therapy is having an isolated environment where you can openly talk about anything that you wouldn't ever share with anyone else. A group of friends is often not that environment.

> Or is it just the safe thing to say without sticking one's neck out?

If you want to stick your neck out in that situation you could offer making a therapist appointment for that person. It lowers the barrier to getting help a lot and imho feels more understanding and supportive than trying to cheer them up or whatever else one might come up with. YMMV of course.

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