What online communities or support groups can I join if I feel extremely isolated?

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Sending you a hug. Feeling isolated can be really tough, but you taking the initiative to seek support is already a fantastic first step towards feeling better. Thankfully, the internet makes it easier than ever to find companionship and support. Based on my experience, I've compiled some online communities and groups below that I hope will help you.

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I. Dedicated Emotional Support & Mental Health Communities

These communities usually have a more inclusive and understanding atmosphere because everyone is there specifically to seek support and share their feelings.

• Douban Groups

  • This is probably the most well-known "huddle for warmth" gathering place in China. Think of it as countless online clubs with different themes. You can find groups simply by searching keywords.
  • Recommended Groups:
    • "We All Love Hahaha" Group: A place full of positive energy. When you're feeling down, scrolling through everyone's silly daily moments can be genuinely healing.
    • "Depression" Group / "Anxiety Disorder" Group: If you feel your emotional issues are more serious, many people here share similar experiences. Members discuss their journeys, medication experiences, and recovery processes, offering strength and the comforting feeling of "I'm not alone in this."
    • "Avoidant Personality Disorder" Group: If you often feel like withdrawing or avoiding social situations, you'll find a lot of resonance here.

• Community Features in Mental Health Apps

  • Many mental health apps now have built-in communities where users are more focused on self-growth and mental well-being, creating a positive atmosphere.
  • Recommended Apps:
    • KnowYourself (KY): They have their own app and community. Their articles are high-quality, and community members tend towards deep thinking and rational discussion. It's a good place to talk about your confusions.
    • Tide / Now Meditation: Meditation apps like these also have communities where people share their meditation experiences and small joys in life. The atmosphere is very peaceful and quiet, perfect for browsing when you're feeling restless.

II. Places to Heal from Heartbreak & Find Support

Those who've experienced heartbreak understand the pain best. In these spaces, you don't need to explain much – people just get it.

• Douban Groups (Again!)

  • Recommended Groups:
    • "Heartbreak Support Group" / "Heartbreak Recovery Check-in" Group: These groups are specifically for people going through breakups. Treat it like a safe space to write down your story and feelings. Many will cheer you on and share their experiences of moving on, like how many days they've maintained "no-contact" or what new hobbies they've picked up. Seeing others making progress can motivate you too.

• Zhihu

  • While Zhihu isn't a typical "group" platform, it has a vast number of highly upvoted answers on "how to get over a breakup." Search for relevant questions and take time to read others' stories and analyses. Sometimes, rational perspectives can help you see a relationship more clearly and move on faster. You can also join discussions in the comments or write your own answer to sort through your thoughts.

• Weibo Super Topics

  • Search for super topics like #Heartbreak#, #Emotions# on Weibo. Many people share their feelings in real-time here. Its real-time nature is strong; if you're feeling very upset right now, post a Weibo synced to the super topic, and strangers will often quickly comment with comfort and support.

III. Interest is the Best Medicine: Find Groups Based on Hobbies

Sometimes, the best way to heal isolation isn't to focus on the pain, but to shift your attention to things you enjoy.

• Bilibili (B站)

  • Do you love movies, TV shows, gaming, cooking, or pets? Bilibili covers almost every interest area. Find creators (UP主) you like and join their fan groups. Or interact with others in the comments – you'll discover many interesting souls who share your "taste." When you immerse yourself in content you love and join in with bullet comments (弹幕) for discussions or jokes, the feeling of isolation can fade away unnoticed.

• Gaming Communities

  • If you enjoy gaming, whether it's massive online games like Final Fantasy XIV or World of Warcraft, or casual games like Animal Crossing, you can find corresponding communities (like NGA forums, Tieba, Discord channels, etc.). Completing tasks or chatting with your "comrades" or "islanders" can create a very real sense of connection.

• Fitness App Communities

  • Apps like Keep or Codoon have their own communities. People share their fitness achievements, running routes, and healthy meals. This positive, uplifting atmosphere is highly contagious and can motivate you to get moving. Exercise itself releases dopamine, making you feel happier, and combined with community encouragement, the effect is doubled!

IV. Some Sincere Tips

Finally, here are a few suggestions for finding support online:

1. Observe First, Then Engage: When joining a new group, "lurk" for a few days to observe the communication style and community vibe. Only start participating when you feel comfortable.
2. Protect Your Privacy: Opening up online is good, but avoid easily sharing too many specific personal details from real life, such as your home address, real name, or workplace. Safety first.
3. Stay If It Fits, Leave If It Doesn't: If a group's atmosphere makes you uncomfortable or adds pressure, leave decisively and find another place that suits you. The online world is vast; there's no need to force yourself to stay somewhere unpleasant.
4. Use It as a Starting Point: Online communities are a fantastic buffer and support system. Ultimately, however, we need to build connections in the real world. Once you've gained some energy online, try extending your interests offline, like joining a local book club or hiking group.

I hope this information is helpful. Please remember, you are not alone; many people have gone through similar phases. Take it step by step; things will get better.