I hate that I can't make or sustain any real friendships. That I am afraid of people, in general. That therapy, medication and even hospitalization haven't been able to make me into someone able to connect with others in a friendly, mutually-enjoyable way. That the advice to "love yourself" is unfathomable in the complete absence of friendships. Another Christmas and New Year without hope. And no, I don't openly say this stuff to anyone in real life, beyond therapy. I am too aware and busy practicing smiling at people, asking open-ended questions and trying not to fall apart.
—Hurting