I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this challenging time. When dealing with depression and maintaining friendships, it's essential to take care of yourself while also considering how to foster healthy relationships. Here are some suggestions on how to approach your friendships in the future:
Seek professional help: First and foremost, prioritize your mental health by seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide you with coping strategies, support, and tools to manage your depression effectively.
Communicate with your friends: While it may be difficult to open up about your feelings, communication is essential. Let your friends know what you're going through and how they can support you. Honest and open communication can strengthen friendships.
Be understanding and patient: Understand that not everyone may fully comprehend what you're going through, but that doesn't mean they don't care. Depression can be challenging for others to understand, so be patient with your friends if they struggle to relate.
Focus on small interactions: You don't need to share everything about your depression with everyone all the time. Instead, focus on small interactions and moments of connection with your friends.
Engage in activities together: Participate in activities that bring joy to both you and your friends. Engaging in enjoyable experiences together can help strengthen your bond.
Avoid excessive self-isolation: While it's okay to have some alone time when needed, try not to isolate yourself too much. Socializing, even in small doses, can be beneficial for your mental health.
Show interest in their lives: Be genuinely interested in your friends' lives and support them in their endeavors. Building strong, reciprocal friendships involves being there for each other.
Express gratitude: Let your friends know that you appreciate their presence and support. Expressing gratitude can reinforce your bond and make them feel valued.
Respect their boundaries: Understand that not everyone will be equipped to handle your depression, and that's okay. Respect their boundaries if they need space or find it challenging to provide the support you need.
Join support groups: Consider joining support groups or communities where you can connect with others who may better understand what you're going through. Having a support network of individuals who can relate to your experiences can be incredibly beneficial.
Remember, friendships are a two-way street. While it's important to seek support from your friends, it's also essential to be a supportive and caring friend in return. If you continue to struggle with maintaining friendships despite your best efforts, consider seeking the help of a therapist or counselor to explore any underlying issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.