Hi everyone, I’m a newcomer. I’ve been sober for 2 years, and I have yet to connect with any sober community. I spend a lot of time alone and struggle with shame and self-loathing (which I’m pretty sure a lot of people in recovery feel). But I’ve gotten to a point that I feel like I really need and want and deserve support in this journey. So I’ve somehow mustered up the courage to surrender and reach out, no matter how uncomfortable it feels.
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Well welcome. Sounds like the first step in full gear. Are you doing any kind of recovery program? That helps with the loneliness.
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Thank you. That’s the part I’m working on now lol. It’s so overwhelming to even know where to start lol. But I’m going to a meeting
Good for you. Fellowshipping with others in recovery is totally rewarding.
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Hey you are not alone . I am about to make a year in 2 weeks and can definitely understand what you are saying . You are not alone !
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Hi Kandice, by seeking help is a great start. I see your from San Diego, I lived in Escondido for about 20 years. I do miss the weather for sure.
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I struggle with the same things as well. Way to take a leap of faith and reach out. That's amazing. Good on you
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Welcome
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Let’s be friendssss (I’m in the same boat lol) also, I love your cat 
but if you’re looking for advice I’d definitely say go to in person meetings and not just one, try all different ones and eventually one will click and you’ll start to feel more comfortable. Once you feel comfortable enough to share, conversations will flow and you’ll find something. I’ve only been going for about 3 weeks now and still don’t feeling comfortable enough to share but it’s getting better each time. Good luck and feel free to reach out whenever 
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Like some have said try a few groups. I tried a couple AA groups in different towns, and didn’t find what I thought was a good fit. I was eventually led to CR, and have found a family there and a place that I want to be with some of the most solid friendships I’ve ever had. It’s not for everyone, but keep trying until you find a home somewhere.
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Thanks, David. I’m trying lol
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Kandace, I can relate. I have 2 weeks sobriety and off and on sober periods through life. 20 years at one point! Lots of denial and shame. Missing element has been a sober community. Seeking the same at this point. I am not a Christian so seeking other alternatives. Feeling positive about the realization of need for community and possibly therapy. Happy for you and your shifting journey!
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What is CR
Good work. I am in a group counseling group from the helo or halo project. It’s on knowing your worth. They have zoom men and womens gruops. If you can’t pay they have scholarships. We all believe lies that aren’t true about us. This can help you live your truth. Hope that helps
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Hey Patti, thank you. That’s awesome that you are so strong to not give up no matter what happens over the years. That is inspiring. And yes, already the warm welcome welcome from people has helped tremendously.
Thank you, Mark. I’ll check that out!
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Keep it up!! 
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Kandice- congrats on 2 years. That is something for you to be really proud of. I’m also a newcomer and haven’t really connected with a group or community. Shame is something I also struggle with, but working with a therapist has helped.
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Hi Kandice: Thanks for sharing! Yes, loneliness, self-loathing, hopelessness, fear, resentment, etc are symptoms of addiction. What’s the cure? In my experience it’s the 12 Steps. Personally, I’m a member of the NA fellowship. I have a sponsor, a support group and I attend meetings regularly. I also see a therapist once a week and a psychiatrist once a month. I use ALL the tools that are available to me. I lived in a homeless shelter for three and a half years. Now I have my own apartment. October 5th will be 5 years clean and sober for me! I’m not going to give you advice. I’m just telling you what works for me. Thanks!
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Thank you John! You are an inspiration! I’m going to start going to meetings, both AA and Buddhist based recovery. The sponsor part is going to be tough for me, but I’m gonna use that little bit of courage I do have to keep going.