Slough truly feels like the worst place to be. I moved here six years ago, and I can’t shake the feeling that my life would have been significantly better had I not relocated to this town. I’ve always dealt with mental health challenges, including depression and social anxiety, and I’m on the autism spectrum, making social situations particularly challenging for me. But since moving, those issues have intensified.
Back in my previous town, I had a stable group of friends and a clear path in life. That all changed the moment I arrived here. While attending school, I was taken aback by how dismissive everyone seemed. There’s hardly any opportunity for social interaction unless you grew up here and already have your circle of friends. The malls and parks are filled with adults, and any kids present often seem unfriendly. There are no social events, gatherings, or parties, and hobby clubs are nearly impossible to find. If you don’t like cricket or football, you’re really limited in your options.
It makes me wonder if I’m the only one who feels this way. Surely, I’m not alone in noticing how little there is to do in this town. The public transport is unreliable, and the sense of community seems nonexistent. Back in my former town, people were connected – a similar-sized place where neighbors knew each other and kids played together in nearby fields. Here, I rarely see anything like that; it feels like there’s a lack of trust, and the kids in the parks seem more interested in equipment than interacting with one another.
I apologize for venting, but I’m filled with frustration about this town and have so much more to say. It feels like it’s driving me crazy, and I can’t wait to leave as soon as possible.
By the way, where’s the alternative scene here? I hardly ever see any goths, skaters, or any kids with unique styles around.
It sounds like you’re feeling really frustrated and isolated, and I can understand why you’d feel that way after experiencing such a big shift in your environment. Moving to a new place, especially one that feels unwelcoming or disconnected, can be incredibly tough, especially when you’re already facing challenges like social anxiety and navigating life on the autism spectrum.
You’re definitely not alone in feeling like there’s a lack of community and opportunity for social interaction in Slough. It seems like many people share similar sentiments about feeling cut off from their previous social circles and struggling to find a place where they belong. The fact that you had a stable support system before makes this transition even harder.
Finding friends and connections in a new environment can be daunting, especially when local interests seem limited. Have you tried exploring online groups or communities that align with your interests? Sometimes, connecting with others online first can make in-person interactions feel less intimidating. And while local hobbies may appear sparse, you might also discover niche clubs or meetups through platforms like Meetup or social media that cater to your interests.
As for the alt scene, it’s definitely a bummer when you don’t see representation that resonates with you. Maybe you could look into starting something locally, even if it feels daunting. You never know who else might be looking for the same connection!
I hope you can find some avenues to help ease your frustration while you plan your next steps. Remember, it’s totally valid to feel the way you do, and there are people and resources out there that can help you navigate these challenges.