Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#1

Post by mesaframe » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 6:58 PM UTC

I have tried to live alone on many instances ranging from 1 to 4 months. But each time anxiety have grappled me from the neck.

It's simply not possible for me to live without constant human interaction.

Now, I want to know if that's possible at all in a healthy way? If so please share your wisdom.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#2

Post by poetically » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:05 PM UTC

Most people aren't cut out for solitude but if you want to get better at it then meditation is a good way to get better at it.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#3

Post by freemint » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:05 PM UTC

It is possible at all but it is not possible for everyone (or most). It's a question of upbringing, mental health and personality as well as which activities are available.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#4

Post by mesaframe » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:07 PM UTC

poetically wrote: post #2

Most people aren't cut out for solitude but if you want to get better at it then meditation is a good way to get better at it.

I have tried that but I had to be meditative whole day and time. That gets tiring... Is there an easier way?

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#5

Post by fivelessminutes » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:07 PM UTC

Consider getting a cat? They can be another 'person' sharing your life and a physical comfort.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#6

Post by leff_f » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:11 PM UTC

It really depends on on why would you do it in the first place.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#7

Post by pkrotich » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:15 PM UTC

I would say get a dog but you mention human interactions.

Perhaps move close to family? Live with parents?

I’m the opposite- I love being alone a little too much for comfort.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#8

Post by necovek » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:18 PM UTC

First up, everyone is different. Some people can be alone for days without fuss, others feel like you.

I can easily do days without other people, but I would keep myself very busy (hobbies, sports, projects, books...).

If you are unused to it, avoid just passing time doing nothing or watching TV, find a purpose to your alone time.

If you can't, don't sweat it and find a roommate or a partner :)

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#9

Post by brudgers » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:25 PM UTC

This is the kind of goal a competent licensed clinical therapist can sometimes help with. I mean there's a lot of detail about why and how and what that isn't in the few words you've written...and well there are also months and years there too.

Anxiety is a mental health condition. Addressing it as such can be a good idea sometimes. Good luck.

Re: Ask HN: How to Live Alone

#10

Post by mesaframe » Fri, Dec 03, 2021, 7:28 PM UTC

necovek wrote: post #8

First up, everyone is different. Some people can be alone for days without fuss, others feel like you. I can easily do days without other people, but I would keep myself very busy (hobbies, sports, projects, books...). If you are unused to it, avoid just passing time doing nothing or watching TV, find a purpose to your alone time. If you can't, don't sweat it and find a roommate or a partner :)

The problem is sooner or later I lose the motivation to do anything. It's a feeling of deep dullness.