And getting a job made a big difference to me. I wasn't working for a few years and I spiralled into depression and self-flagellation. I have a few days left on a 9 week contract and am sensing those old feelings coming back. But I can't tell you the lift it has given me. I really AM useful enough for someone to pay me money for my time. I really AM interesting enough for people to converse with me on a daily basis. Sheesh, some of these people even want to keep in touch after the job is finished!
Perhaps there aren't full time jobs around fot you at the moment, but maybe some voluntary work could reap the same rewards?