Let's work on social isolation and loneliness

I moved to Vancouver at the end of 2018 for a new job. I felt very excited about settling into a new city, making new friends and starting a new life. Shortly after that, there was the shutdown. I was working from home in a new city. I didn’t know any of my coworkers or any of my neighbors. I missed seeing people’s smiles. My social life consisted of talking to my friends back in Toronto online. 

Once the Covid restrictions were lifted, I tried socializing again but I found myself feeling anxious about it. What used to come naturally didn’t come anymore. I would catch myself always thinking about how I came across. I paid a lot of attention to people’s facial expressions. For some reason I felt as if everyone disliked me.  I was almost ready to give up and move back to Toronto. 

Working with a counsellor helped me manage my social anxiety. I’ve learned how not to get stuck in my thoughts and how to start taking risks. Some of those risks didn’t work out, but some did, and I connected with some really great people.

I realize that deep connections and close friendships take time. Rather than trying to speed things up, I am learning to be present to every moment of my life, whether I am alone or with others.