Should I go out more, or read more often?

[Anonymous]

I love reading and while I enjoy going out to the occasional party, I’m mildly autistic and I get overwhelmed by crowds and lots of loud noise and small talk; and find myself homesick after a few hours away. I have lots of friends and I get lonely easily; and struggle with depression and anxiety when I’m just at home by myself.

[Oliverlogan263]

Hmm that's a tough one. I can understand why both reading and going out have their pros for you.

Going out more could help you feel less lonely and anxious, especially if it's just lowkey hanging with a few close friends instead of big parties. But it also sounds like the crowds and noise overload you sometimes.

Reading is great for mental health and learning new stuff. But staying in alone too much could feed your loneliness and depression.

Maybe you could try finding a balance? Set aside dedicated reading time, but also push yourself to go out with your boys once a week or so for low pressure chilling. It doesn't have to be huge parties if that's too much. Even just getting food together or playing video games could help.

Is there a book club or something you could join so you're around other readers in a calm setting? Or an outdoors activity like hiking where you'd also be socializing?

Don't be too hard on yourself either way. Do what helps you feel good without stressing about it too much. Mental health is a journey, just keep trying little things that work for you! Hope this helps ❤️.

[Crankor]

It's usually a good idea to go out occasionally. Don't want to completely cut yourself off from the outside world even if you don't necessarily interact with it. You could try going to a Cafe once in a while and bring a book there to read?

[rosemilk]

anything you can do to make yourself comfortable is what you should do

but when you do go out, make sure it's in a calm environment, somewhere familiar, with a friend and doing something enjoyable

[SongBirrd]

both?