I feel lonely today!

[Clm1974]

So I'm two weeks in and feeling great in so many ways but today I feel incredibly lonely. I cut all my ties with my using "friends" but now I have nobody to spend time with. I know it sounds like I'm whining and I'm sorry if it does but I don't know how else to express this! I'm going to meetings and trying really hard to make new sober friends. I go early and I leave late. I found a great group but no one does anything after the meetings to socialize. Days like today make me miss my old life in a way. It's a really dangerous place to be for me! Any suggestions on making new friends? I know this sounds so basic but to me it feels difficult. You all have been so supportive and encouraging! Did any of you feel this way early on and if so do you have any suggestions?

[jugglin]

Congratulations on your clean time.  You have made it through the tough physical part and the mental is shouting out.  Try different meetings.  I think you were so aware and made the right choice to get out of the house when you start to feel that way...distract your brain.  Do you have a passion (hiking, biking, music etc.) that you might be able to find a local group to join?  How about going to the gym?  Just a thought.
Keep pushing forward...you are doing GREAT!

[Clm1974]

Thanks for the encouragement! I finally stopped moping and got off my butt and went out to grab a bite to eat! The change in atmosphere helped a bit and I'm off to a meeting soon. I'm just so greatful for this forum and the ability to express what's going on in this crazy brain of mine! I do need to get out of my comfort zone and think of reaching out to people at the meetings more. Maybe that will come in time. I really appreciate the suggestions so thanks :).

[Amandag78]

Congratulations on 2 weeks, great job!!!
Dont worry, im a loner with no friends since i stopped using. At least we have m/h  : )

[meegWpaw]

wow TWO WEEKS!   you doing great!   your not whining.  I know exactly how you feel ... it does seem to me that your best bet to make friends quick is gonna be na right now ... or aa ... any of the fellowships.  can you hit more meetings and maybe at different ones there will be people who go out after?  at my meetings a lot of ppl do social things before and after.  be patient today it is kind of slow around here.  so happy for you on the two weeks!!!!

[joycake]

I know exactly how you feel. Meetings are a great place to meet people and make friends, but in my experience I tend to feel very self-conscious and shy, especially in early sobriety. Chances are that they are feeling the same way, so I would suggest being the one to initiate activities, even if it's things related to recovery, like reading the book together.
This website has been really helpful in getting past that judgemental isolated vibe that I get from meetings. We are all going through the same thing! Reach out any time, and one of us is bound to answer.
That's all I have, sorry that it's not much, but I will definitely check back to see what others have to say!