Deep Depression

[Crankin]

When I made the comment about people relocating to the Sunbelt and taking their problems with them, I would say that most of these people moved by choice, not because they had to take a job there. They decided life would be "happier" in a place with endless summer and then found a job and moved. It would be fine for awhile, but then marital, children, emotional and social issues seemed to come out at about the 9 month to one year mark.
This is just an observation, as I especially saw it as a teacher, with kids moving in from other places. It takes work to integrate yourself into a community. I am a very social person and when I moved back to Massachusetts, it took a lot of work. Most people here stick with friends they've had for years and/or their families. It was worth it, though.
Making friends in AZ was easy, as everyone was new and mostly friendly. However, I have lived in a place I despised (Miami), so I understand the feeling of not fitting in.

[shootingstar]

What does help, especially if one doesn't know anyone well in a newish city/city that's hard to like, is regular contact with loved ones/a friend. The Internet makes it even cheaper these days. I know it's not the same as person in the same physical spot where you are, but if it means providing a sense of personal continuity and equilibrium, keeping relationships meaningful and engaged, then do so. As long as it's a 2-way street/dialogue, giving back to and for with the other person.

Where I am, there a lot of defectors from Ontario, other provinces and some from British Columbia like myself..simply because of a job offer. Calgary is the fastest growing large city in Canada at this time. However that may be slowing down a tad.

The problem is that people are friendly, interested but their commitment to the place/city is not quite there.

[solobiker]

Sorry to hear you are going through this. I moved out here (Denver area) 17 years ago and for me it was tough at first. I don't have too many friends mainly because I am a pretty quiet, shy person. I have my periods of feeling in a funk so to speak. Do you have any other hobbies besided riding your bike. Sometimes I have to force myself to do mine and sometimes that helps. What part of Denver are you in? Maybe we could hook up sometime.

[Melalvai]

If you're in Boulder I have a friend who is vegan & a bicyclist. That's not to say you'd be instant friends but you'd have something in common! I know she would be happy to help you adjust.

[ehirsch83]

Send me a message also if you ever want to meet up. I am in Broomfield and moved here end of Sept- so, right around when you did.

I went through depression when we moved here and it got worse with the winter, the lack of friends, my new marriage was shaky,etc. I am now seeing a therapist and also went on some "happy meds" for a little while, but I am now not taking them! I do still need sleep meds though, otherwise I end up with insomnia.

Granted I'm not a veg, but my sister is and I used to be-so I am ubber happy to make a meal with you, meet to eat, grab a drink or go for a spin- or now with this weather- go for a hike!!!

Emily