Being depressed sucks and you can never get over it. Like a shadow, it follows you around until something triggers you back into it.

But, I found that connecting with people really helps. I was very cringe at first when I tried to socialize (mind you, I was a recluse for almost 2 years) but I worked on that part of me, stumbling my way, "fake it till you make it" lol.

I think gaming in particular really helped me get out of that shell. I started rewarding myself with games every time I achieved something. Which helps me avoid living like a recluse (gaming 24hr a day, unemployed) to have 1 week of me time to play games and socialize (online or offline)

Oh before you asked, I am self-employed. Check my TikTok, I run a business. Funny how a simple change of habit/mindset can really affect your life. It's not that I quit gaming, I just manage it better. Because in the end, I can live like a recluse, because I enabled myself to.

I have shelter, food and clothes. And I never realized how much of a privilege that was until I lost my income. (In my case, I'm mooching off my parents). That's why I was able to live as a recluse. After my parents kicked me out of the house, I had to work hard lol.

One day I will return to my parents. Right now, I'm comfortable where I'm at in life.