So during the week, my schedule is that I got class and study in the library for the whole day. This gets boring and tiresome and I want to know how to include socializing in my schedule as I need more friends. I don’t really have any friends I know in the classroom and small talk really doesn’t click with me. I know I post a lot on forums but honestly, I’m kind of desperate for friends at this point. I’ve mentioned this one good friend and others I try communicating with but the responses aren’t going too well. I’ve joined clubs but only one so far is a start. This is just getting me down as my brother is in university and he’s made friends while I haven’t. I also have OCD and ruminate about issues everyday, and being alone with myself all the time just makes it worse and I need friends/social activity/something to take my mind off it.
What about getting part time job? Or trying intermural sports?
Agree with intramural sports. Some schools also have club teams where anyone can participate. The exercise is good at taking one’s mind off things as well. Try some other clubs, too.
I have joined the fencing club and fighting game club so far. My interests are considered nerdy.
Go to the gym. Make plans with those in your dorm to attend events around campus like a game or a show or even go out for a meal. Get involved in a community service project.
I don’t live on campus. I had a chance with these people but blew it as my OCD made me really withdrawn last year.
Have you tried a few sessions with the counseling center on campus? Since they know the dynamics of your school, they might have some good suggestions on specific things you could pursue. They could also give you tips on connecting with people.
How about the idea presented in the first response about getting a part-time job on campus? I would look for one where you would have a lot of interface with students - library checkout, school cafe or bookstore, etc.
Hmm, I visited the peer support center twice but no the counselor.
Not sure if i have time for a part time job.
I would definitely seek out counseling at the college – it never hurts to get professional help.
I could argue that pretty much every student could squeeze in time for an 8-10 per week campus job. I’d cut certain people some slack like varsity athletes.
Also, remember if you truly want change it means shaking up your life a little. Look for ways to say YES instead of no. You’ve had some good suggestions here but you seem to put up reasons why you can’t incorporate them into your life instead of think of ways that you can.
No excuses. You need to get involved with either a job or volunteering. Volunteering is great, pick an area of interest, ideally in an active project on campus. People who are volunteering are probably going to be more open and accepting of all types of people. Your interests are cool, not nerdy. And I agree that you should go to your school’s counseling center. It should be free and it will help you with your OCD. Good luck.
@NightRogue just want to say I empathize with you 1000%. Few understand how extraordinarily difficult it can be to live with OCD. I applaud you for all you’ve managed thus far, and I hope you can get the help you need to get where you want to go in life.
BTW, in case you haven’t heard of it, there is now an app for OCD sufferers: nOCD. I am not involved in the company or anything; I just read that a graduate of Pomona College came up with it. Great success story in case you’re interested. Good luck!