I'm in my thirties, minimal social life, haven't had a girlfriend since college, can't get a job to save my life, living at home because I can't afford rent. Which sucks, but more so since I feel like I've got this wife and kids size hole, but can't seem to get myself out socializing, let alone date, especially in a pandemic, all this made worse by depression that I can't seem to entirely shake. Oh, and I'm a dude, which makes the whole wanting kids thing feel even more embarrassing and weird.

My friend, you are so not alone. The world has changed and not for the better. My daughter is 26 and she is unmarried and lives at home. Almost all of her friends live at their parent’s house.

You want a family, not just because you have been “programmed by society” to want one but because it is a natural desire in a human being.

Now, that said, this isn’t the end of the road my friend. This is a break. You are lucky. You have a place to stay. Here is what you do.

Take advantage of the ‘rona interlude to do some stuff. First off you gotta break the traces. In the North before the dogsled can move the sled driver has to rock the sled back and forth to break the ice on the runners. You do that by making A SET OF GOALS. Girlfriend. Job. Savings. You might have to update resume or even take some classes online. Then start tackling the goals.

You’re young still. The years will peel off though. It will get harder. Use this time to learn meditation. Walk, run or bike. Lose weight. Buy some new clothes. It will be easier to meet women with a job and a place.

The depression will lift the minute you start.

Good luck bro!