I’m sure there are members who can make better suggestions, though if I were in your parish I’d be doing my best to draw you into what seem like cliques. Perhaps you seem withdrawn and other people leave you be, assuming that’s your preference.
While not suffering depression myself, I’m intimately familiar with it as my husband has suffered from chronic depression since childhood. He wasn’t one to join groups or even to seek friends, even in childhood. You are welcome to use Private Message if you do need to talk to someone who understands. I’ve needed to for my husband’s sake.
Are there any groups or parish activities that you could become involved in if you find the courage?
You know that if you falsely seem unfriendly, many people will fail to interact with a person who does seem aloof, with the presumption that they wish to keep distance. If you indicate a willingness to take part, this could break the ice. People who seem aloof and who don’t interact can be a little scary to more outgoing people.
I was the shyest person this side of the black stump. The opposite has been true for many years, because if you start to think about others, and take interest in them, you begin to grow into the person you’re meant to be instead of feeling overlooked and alone. I know it’s not easy to break though.
Please God you can. Offering prayers for your happiness and peace.
