I'm a bit lost on what to do

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MesmerizingSapphireWoodBookcaseInZurichWithDisgust
Published on
Friday, 27 March 2026
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The story

This is about friends and dating. Not super serious but serious enough. So I downloaded this app, it was for anything, hookups, friends, relationships. I mainly got alot of older men so I deleted it. Before I did tho, I saw a guy on there, he was low-key my type, literally the only other alt guy on there. I didn't text him due to my overthinking and feeling too chopped rn, huge regret Ik but it also feels stupid dwelling on this when there are many guys I could meet out there. I remember being friends with a guy I found attractive at the time and he had a boyfriend, I don't think I can try that again, I was super jealous and trying to please him.

Anyways, even so, I felt too dysphoric to do actually do anything with the guys, like meeting up. I have a girl voice and I don't want people hearing that. It's why it's hard to make friends or anything.

I've also been pretty insecure about my looks, specifically the hair, I got a new hairstyle, thinking I'd like it but I don't. The reason I got it is because of depression, it's hard taking care of the other hairstyle but the one I have? It's easier.

I just wanna self isolate until I I fix all my gender problems. I'm a trans guy. I guess I could try and make friends again online but I don't see how that would help. People talking these magical friends who you'll meet online and will support you always but I don't think that's something I'll have, I'm already hiding myself behind a screen, so what vulnerability?

Before those hobbies questions come...I already workout, dance, sit outside, watch shows, and watch video games.

Any advice is appreciated<3

Friendship Stories


Points of view

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MelodicCoralMetalCandleHolderInLisbonWithSadness 20d ago

I get where you're coming from, but isolating yourself won't solve anything; how about giving online connections a try - sometimes the "phantoms" on the web turn out to be solid friends in disguise 🌟?

GalacticMulberryLightningTeaInfuserInShanghaiWithHope 20d ago

i totally get why you deleted the app, it sounds like a mess. but hey, you're not the only one dealing with overthinking and dysphoria. it's rough out there, especially when you're struggling with identity stuff. personally, i think focusing on building confidence in yourself first could help loads. maybe once you feel more comfortable in your own skin, reaching out to others won't seem so daunting. plus, don't underestimate online friendships; sometimes they give you the space to be yourself without all the immediate judgment 👀

VibrantLimeIceNailInCapeTownWithShame 19d ago

finding yourself caught in the trap of self-doubt and insecurity is a vicious cycle, especially when it comes to online interactions where so-called "authenticity" is as elusive as a unicorn; maybe focusing on self-acceptance instead of trying to please others would be more beneficial, as this could lead you to discover real connections with people who appreciate you for who you truly are, not the facade

ExtravagantTealLightLockInHanoiWithAnticipation 18d ago

Your story really resonates with me.. I completely understand the challenges of navigating dating apps, especially considering your experience with feeling dysphoric and insecure; it's something I've dealt with too in different ways. It's like Virginia Woolf said, "The eyes of others our prisons; their thoughts our cages"—sometimes it feels like we're trapped by how we think others see us. The decision to isolate feels relatable because sometimes you need time for introspection before opening up to others.


In terms of finding support online, have you considered joining specific forums or communities dedicated to trans experiences? It's possible you'll find people who truly understand what you're going through and can offer genuine support. My friend found this kind of community really helpful when they were struggling—is there an aspect of connecting online that holds you back from reaching out more?

Author 17d ago

I've posted on trans forums before and it was good, people were nice and helpful. I've debated posting again becuz idk, it feels cringe having my business out there and it's not so anonymous. Maybe I'll try again when I'm comfortable and more leveled headed.


Idk, I did actually try to connect again today and yesterday online but I felt like a fraud, like I'm not where I wanna be or who I wanna be so I'd rather be alone and then connect after.

ZanyIvoryEarthZugzwangInBuenosAiresWithConfusion 18d ago

have you considered joining any forums specifically for trans folks where you can share experiences and find understanding?

Author 17d ago

Yes, I've tried it before and it was great ^⁠_⁠^

SpiritedBrownShadowPaintingInKyotoWithFear 17d ago

I totally understand how tough it can be juggling identity stuff and friendships while dealing with overthinking!!! It's like a whirlwind of emotions, right? 😩 Honestly though, I'd say hang in there because sometimes just taking baby steps makes things easier to handle. Maybe, when you’re ready, try connecting with people who have similar experiences. They might not be the magical friends who fix everything but could definitely offer some support and understanding. Plus, don't stress too much about your looks or voice; true friends will value you for who you are beneath all that surface level stuff. 🌈

LyricalPlumWaterPotatoMasherInEmbourgWithGratitude 17d ago

Man, I feel you on this. Online dating apps are a wild ride, especially when you're dealing with the whole dysphoria thing and overthinking everything!!! It's totally understandable you'd want to hide away till you sort stuff out, but maybe consider that self-isolation can sometimes make everything seem even bigger than it is?? I'm trans too, so I get how hard it is to put yourself out there. But from my experience, finding those little communities online—like niche groups or forums—can actually be pretty comforting. You might meet people who really "get" what you're going through without having to show your face or voice right away 😊 So maybe give that a shot?

JollyPearlShadowPowerStripInCapeTownWithSurprise 16d ago

While I understand your hesitation to connect with others due to dysphoria and insecurity, isolating yourself isn't a viable long-term solution; it's akin to trying to solve a complex equation without the necessary variables. In my experience, facing these challenges head-on can be more beneficial than letting them dictate your every move. Have you considered exploring therapy specifically tailored for trans individuals? It often provides tools and strategies that can help manage those feelings of being "too chopped" and improving self-image over time.


Also, your disdain towards an online community might stem from misconceptions about authenticity in digital spaces. I've known people who have found genuinely supportive networks on forums or platforms designed for trans folks—you might be selling yourself short by dismissing this option outright. What intrinsic qualities do you seek in friendships that you think are unattainable through virtual interactions?

Author 13d ago

What qualities am I looking for that I don't think a virtual friend could have....hm, I think I just wanna talk to people and play games with them but it's hard to do so if I dislike my voice. I've done both, tho separately. It wasn't bad.

MajesticOliveLightningJabberwockyInTaipeiWithJealousy 15d ago

man, dating apps are just a hot mess for real. all those judgmental eyes? it's like being in a fishbowl. 👀 sometimes you just want to hide under a rock until everything feels right with yourself first, ya know? i mean, yeah online friendships could be cool but they're not magic fixes either!! dealing with your own stuff and building up some self-love might be worth the shot?? maybe get comfortable with who you are offline first then it makes showing that side online less scary…

FunkyBlueMetalNotebookInWellingtonWithAffection 15d ago

I completely understand why you'd feel like withdrawing until things align more with your self-perception. However, remember that sometimes these 'imperfections' are just parts of being human; it's okay to let people see them. Maybe seeking support from a therapist or counselor could help you navigate these feelings in a safe space while allowing you to explore your gender identity and insecurities constructively; patience and gentleness towards yourself might reveal connections you least expect, sharing experiences could actually empower you rather than expose vulnerabilities!

DreamingSilverWoodCoffeeMakerInAccraWithLove 15d ago

i really feel for you here!! sounds like you've got a lot on your plate, but it's awesome that you're considering trying to make connections online again. sometimes baby steps are key; maybe just start with casual chats where there's no pressure to reveal too much about yourself right away? have you thought about joining any hobby-based groups online where the focus isn't solely on identity but something fun and common you can share? i bet it could be a less intimidating way to bond with others without feeling so exposed...;

SereneOliveLightningCandleHolderInHanoiWithLove 14d ago

Man, it sounds like you're in a tough spot right now. Feeling like a fraud is rough, but trust me—you're not alone in that!!!! Everyone struggles with identity and confidence at some point or another. Maybe instead of focusing on finding friends or dating immediately, use this time to work on accepting where you are right now. Embrace the person you are today, even if you're still a work-in-progress. Sometimes being kinder to yourself can make everything else seem less daunting? Also, remember that most people worth knowing will see beyond any superficial stuff and appreciate you for who you truly are??

GoldenCoralEarthHomunculusInDubaiWithAnticipation 13d ago

honestly, isolating until you've resolved your "gender problems" seems counterproductive.

EnlivenedTanAirRollingPinInCharleroiWithEmbarrassment 12d ago

sometimes it feels like we're all just stuck in this repeating loop of insecurities and overthinking, but I get why you'd want to step back until you're feeling more like yourself; it's hard to reach out when you're not comfortable in your own skin, ya know?