How does a 59 yo female who live alone and far away from family cope with the depression caused by loneliness?

Question

I lost my husband two years ago and our daughter lives 1700 miles away. I have no family close by and get so very lonely. The depression caused by my circumstances is sometimes unbearable. My close friend have full time jobs or they are busy with their own families most of the time. Financial harships play a role in this as well. I want to find a way out of the funk all of the circumstances have caused but seem to not find an easy way to do it.

Answer 1

I agree with Matthew above, although I don't advocate any one particular denomination over any other. The point is to get involved in a church family. Make new friends. Get involved in the lives of others. Minister to them. Learn about them. Allow them to minister to you. Talk to the pastor about getting involved in one the specific ministries of the church. You will fee better about yourself if you know that you are helping others. Also, in forming a personal relationship with the pastor, he or she can determine if you might need some professional help to deal with your depression (i.e., meds, etc.)

Answer 2

Everytime I was offered a really good job, it was necessary to move away from my family to capitalize on the oppurtunity. Don't fret too much, Darlin'. You'll make new friends and will soon have plenty of good stories to share, whenever you are able to visit your family. Good luck with that upcoming move. Once the inevitable bit of homesickness passes, you won't be sorry. What part of California are you moving to? Northern and Southern California are as different as night and day. Many native Californians (myself included) think the state should actually be divided into two states. Then all the filthy rich Southern California Republicans will be forced to either steal someone else's water or pay fairly for the resources they consume.

Answer 3

Aw I totally know how you feel.

I moved to London by myself and I was so alone and knew nobody. I withdrew myself. But actually I think the best thing was finding a partner.

Perhaps dating is worth a shot, if you are ready after your husband died. A gentleman friend is not necessarily sexual.
If not, keep it in mind for the future. My boyfriend looks after me and understands if I get a little crazy. I am also able to use my relationship as a platform for getting out there and meeting more friends. As that is hard to do without anyone.

Answer 4

See depression treatments/resources at http://www.ezy-build.net.nz/~shaneris on page 2, where there are many free techniques and suggestions, such as online volunteering, relaxation techniques, and exercise, among others, which will help to productively make use of your time, during the hours when others are unavailable. Boost your income AND pass the time by doing the more lucrative surveys, or other paid work you can do at home (DON'T shell out $$$!).

Answer 5

Go to church. The people at the Church's of Christ are very loving and caring and there is plenty to help out and do. Also, there are a ton of children and if you become a member you are their family. You'll never be lonely again, not to mention you would be in the kingdom of heaven. Let me know if you have any questions or want to find a church in your area.

Answer 6

You should join a gym besides getting into better shape and feeling better because excercise helps depression you will meet people their that will motivate you and are friendly i met some friends their and we hang out get some dinner or we catch a movie together once in a while. Hopefully this helps.

Answer 7

Move closer to family, get a pet, get involved in some kind of volunteering network

Answer 8

I'd move closer to family. You need a support network.

Answer 9

Get a dog..............I am serious it is proven to work.

I will put you in my prayers.