[ClayTheScribe]

I really feel for you swampy. I too am unemployed and living with my parents and it's a real killer to the confidence I never had. I also take antidepressants that help, but sometimes they lose their effectiveness. That just means you need to go to a psychiatrist, not a general practitioner (they know next to nothing about psych meds), tell them how you feel and let them give you suggestions on how to change your meds. You have to be real proactive when it comes to psych meds, otherwise you stay miserable.

As for making friends, go to concerts and start chatting people up about music. You might even find some musicians you can be friends with. Be yourself. Just try not to be too negative. I hate when people tell me to smile more, but frankly, people aren't keen on making friends with depressed people, nor are they interested in dating them. Smile more, even if it kills you inside. I to have had little success with women, with or without alcohol. A lot of that has to do with my low confidence level. I am told the best way to increase confidence is to approach people and start talking to them. Also get really into what you're passionate about, so keep practicing your music.

A lot of it has to do with having no job and living with your parents I would imagine. Just keep looking for a job and you'll find one eventually. Also network as much as you can, that's a good way to make friends and job connections. Join LinkedIn if you're not already. When you have connections, ask a few people out for coffee. Ask them a lot of questions about themselves.

If you have depression or a mental illness, you should not be taking antidepressants alone. Seek out a therapist, that's where most of the real work at recovering from mental illness takes place.

Good luck and keep us updated.