Looking back now at the depression time of my life, I don't think I was actually depressed but I was chronically lonely with no end in sight which was terrifying and caused moments of desperation.

I didn't know then how to identify my interests or how to find others who shared those interests.

I didn't know how getting out into nature would make me feel so good, so refreshed, or so re-energised.

I didn't know how to rewrite the script playing in my head that made me feel bad for my own lacking.

It wasn't my fault I entered adulthood without basic mental health skills. I was a product of the system at that time.

Thank goodness I later found my own tools and developed the skills I need for connection on my own. But so much wasted time. So sad.