How do I find emotional connection?
I (25M) have been single for quite a while. I have some trauma from previous relationships that made me avoid dating and emotional connection for years.
About 8 months ago I moved to a big city to start a new chapter in my life. I didn’t know anyone here, but I was excited for the adventure and wanted a fresh start.
Since then, I’ve had a lot of setbacks, mostly career related. During that period I realized how lonely I actually felt and I slowly fell into a mild depression. For a few months I felt sad almost all the time.
I got help fairly quickly through therapy and by opening up more to a few people I met here. Thankfully I can confidently say that I don’t think I’m depressed anymore.
The problem now is different.
I don’t necessarily feel sad anymore, but I do feel directionless and disconnected. I still don’t really feel at home in this city or in my own life.
A few weeks ago I started using dating apps and went on several dates. I realized through that process how badly I miss connection and intimacy. Yesterday another date ended because the romantic connection wasn’t really there, and it hit me harder than expected.
Not because I was deeply attached to her, but because it felt like I lost another piece of hope.
Now I genuinely don’t know where to start anymore.
Do I keep trying through dating apps? Or should I focus on building connection and community in a completely different way first?