making connections
 

So one of my major challenges in life is making and keeping connections with people. It's a challenge, because despite all the wellness advice and common sense saying that people with a wide social circle and support group live longer and are happier . . . I just don't like people much. I'd rather be alone most of the time, and always have.

Here's an article which is very clear on the connection between connecting with people and health: http://boomers.msn.com/articleLHJ.as...76471&GT1=9103

Interestingly, it says both quality and quantity work well. Family connections, work connections, and spiritual connections all work.

I know first hand how important it is to have a support group to one's mental health. I just suck at it so much.

So am I doomed to die alone? (Sigh)

Didn't I read somewhere that you already have 6 grandchildren? I don't think you'll die alone. ;)

well, ideally I want to die in my bed at 90 surrounded by children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, as well as young lovers (one of each sex =cough=) but I don't think it's going to happen. :)

One of the points of the article is that the close family support that people relied on in the past is no longer. Family grow apart with distance.

One of the things I remember hearing about Bill Clinton--and it doesn't matter whether you like him or not for this discussion--is that he was someone who nurtured and kept every friend he ever had since kindergarten. This impressed me, since I have let good friends slip away through neglect over the years.

I've let go of all my high school friends except one and I'm a freshman in college right now.

I wouldn't force yourself to be social or then you will be trying to do something you don't want to do, which could lead to worse things. I can't give you great advice because of my age but I would guess that making yourself and your family happy while exploring new things would be a good way to go. You will be happy and you will most likely meet new people.