Dear Amy: I’m struggling. We started a business and had a baby during the pandemic. My wife and I have become reclusive.
The isolation has caused me to lose my social graces.
I’d like to ask how to return to previous ways, but I don’t know if I even want to.
I still do some things: I play sports and coach, but I don’t really socialize much.
I used to go to parties, bars, golf outings, etc.
Maybe I’ve just become super judgmental. I’m letting these friendships and relationships go because I feel like I can’t deal with them — or don’t want to be bothered.
It’s to the point where any little thing can get you on my no-friend list now.
I suppose it is neurotic, but I’m just not sure how to turn the tiller.
It’s even affecting my family.
Obviously, I suffer from some anxiety and depression, but I don’t feel like they’ve taken over my life.
I just don’t want to hang out anymore. I feel like I should want to, but I just don’t.
— Struggling Dude in the Midwest
Dear Struggling: First, take a very deep breath. You have experienced extremely stressful life changes during the last year. Starting a business and having a baby are two events that are bound to profoundly affect how you spend your time.
However, based on what you report, I would say that your anxiety and depression are dominating your life.
