It’s not easy, she’s found, to explain how the experience of loneliness differs from that of depression or social anxiety, and how the three overlap. “I think it’s a really difficult distinction to make,” Michelle said. “Being lonely can lead to mental health issues. And also, mental health issues make you more susceptible to loneliness. It’s very hard to understand yourself when you’re dealing with depression and anxiety, let alone to let someone else in to try and understand it. When I struggle with my mental health, I can push people away, for fear of judgment or just not wanting to be
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