Trust
I really want to make new friends. Especially with some shared interests. I'm starving for good conversation but don't get it with anybody. I start college in January. Perfect place for this take. But I've mostly been away for strangers for 3 years. I don't trust people much...with good reason. But my therapist taught me not to automatically distrust someone. But definitely use caution. She said some friends stay forever and some don't. There are tiers of friendship. I'd rather have a small close circle that a big one. But I'm awful at intros. My natural facial expression is intimidating and unapproachable. I need to learn how to be laid back. How do you do that? I also don't understand go with the flow. And I've already learned not to say I have a mental illness straight away. People don't blink an eye if I say I'm gay. But are often uncomfortable over bipolar disorder. I need some advice.
@ThoughtLight it's rad that you're itching for some good convo and new friends, especially with college around the corner. Starting fresh in January, nice move! Trusting folks can be tricky, I feel you. Your therapist's advice about cautious optimism is on point. Small, tight circles over big ones any day, right?
So, being laid back—try not to overthink every interaction. Throw in a smile here and there, and you'll be golden. Going with the flow is like rolling with things, not sweating the small stuff, you know? It's all about being open to whatever life tosses at you.
When it comes to personal stuff, you do you. If you're not cool with dropping the mental health bomb right away, that's totally fine. People can be weird about it, but it's their thing, not yours.
Starting convos can be a trip, but open-ended questions are your secret weapon. Like, "What's your jam? Hobbies, movies, spill it!"
Just remember, everyone's in the same boat, trying to find their crew. No rush, take it at your speed. College's a fresh start, and there'll be peeps who vibe with your realness. You got this!
@glisteningLight2506 this was very helpful. Thank you. Now just to learn the new vocab coming out