It's not inherently weird or abnormal for someone to go through periods of their life without close friends. People's social experiences can vary widely, and there could be various reasons for not having close friends, such as moving to a new place, being introverted, experiencing social anxiety, or not having found like-minded individuals.
It's essential to differentiate between being introverted or having a preference for solitude and being antisocial or having antisocial personality disorder. Being introverted means that you may find social interactions draining and prefer spending time alone or in smaller groups, but it doesn't necessarily imply an aversion to socializing altogether. Antisocial personality disorder, on the other hand, is a serious mental health condition characterized by a pattern of disregarding and violating the rights of others, along with a lack of empathy and remorse.
If you feel that your difficulty in forming friendships is causing you distress or impacting your well-being, it may be helpful to explore why this is the case. Consider the following:
Social Skills: Evaluate your social skills and communication style. Improving these skills can make it easier to connect with others.
Shared Interests: Seek out activities or communities where you can meet people who share similar interests. Common hobbies or passions can be a great foundation for friendships.
Be Open-Minded: Be open to meeting new people and don't hesitate to initiate conversations. Building relationships takes time and effort.
Quality Over Quantity: Remember, it's better to have a few meaningful friendships than numerous superficial ones.
Professional Help: If social anxiety or other emotional challenges are hindering your ability to connect with others, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor.
Be Patient: Developing strong friendships can take time, so don't be too hard on yourself.
Ultimately, everyone's social journey is unique, and there is no "right" way to have friends. Some people thrive in large social circles, while others prefer smaller, more intimate connections. The key is to find what makes you comfortable and happy, as long as it doesn't lead to isolation or significant distress.