Isolation and Loneliness

think u need to see doc ask for somthing the help with your anxierty and maybe the depression side as well,ive been were you are and medication does help ,might take a few weeks to lick in tho

Gillian,

First I am sorry you are feeling these things.

It didn't say if you have seen a doctor or are currently getting treatment. If you haven't, please do.

As far as your job. I can empathize with you. That does sound like a lonely job. I have had jobs where I don't see or talk to any one all day and when I would occasionally see someone it would be very superficial. I came to the realization that that job wasn't for me. I don't know what your options are but if you have the option look for something that is more social. If you normally love the job and it is just recently with these feelings that the job isn't tolerable then get help if you haven't. Making rash decisions is never typically a good thing.

Take care

B

There's a good website for people who feel lonely - Web of Loneliness.  There are different types of forums where people can chat or write about their feelings.  It really helped my friend who feels the same way you do.

Hi Gillian,

I can relate to your situation as I have worked in libraries (academic, public, medical) all my life and they can be very quiet places. I spent a summer alone in a college library and almost went stir-crazy with loneliness! In later years, I worked occasionally in a small hospital library where I could go the whole day without seeing a customer. I was suffering depression at the time and being alone with your thoughts can be really difficult. I always tried to have a few projects on the go as my mind struggled to concentrate on any one thing for too long. I'm sorry your manager is not taking you seriously. I'm assuming you are a part of a larger network and have colleagues who you don't see but work in nearby libraries. Even if you could have a regular job-swap on a rota basis with colleagues who work in a less isolated environment, that would be an improvement. Do you have an Occupational Health dept where you work? If your manager is not taking your health situation seriously, your employer has a strict responsibility to do so. You could ask for a referral. I know it's tricky in a library situation, but could you distract yourself with some soft music and ear-phones while you are alone in the office (not loud enough to disturb customers or not be able to hear the phone if it rang). Just something that would help soothe you. I have a friend who always listens to classical music when she needs to concentrate on something at work ;-)

I hope that you have made it through this experience today but I know we need to find a resolution to help you in the longterm. Is there anything good happening in your life at the moment? How are your children? Please keep in touch. You are not alone. Next time you feel like this at work, don't be afraid to ring the Samaritans so that you can talk to a friendly person and hear some reassurance. Sending you a BIG hug xx