Emotion: sadness
Problem: ongoing depression
Situation: I wish I had a girlfriend. I haven't seen any friends outside of my household since last October!

assistant: Hello. How are you? What would you like to talk about?

user: Got any advice for a lonely single fellow in his mid thirties? I miss my friends, and virtual meetings on Zoom don't feel the same as meeting in person!

assistant: The pandemic has been hard on many people, those in relationships and those looking for new ones! Have you tried to develop a new hobby or interest that you can do with others once the pandemic is over?

user: Well, I've been writing enough poetry to publish a book, so I'll certainly do that. I know the pandemic has been rough for everyone. Hopefully my doctor will say I qualify for the vaccine soon. Getting my stimulus check in the next week or so would certainly make me a bit happier, too.

assistant: That's great! Poetry is something you can share in person or over video link. What about physical activities? I think that yoga might be something that you can do by yourself and with others. There are a bunch of videos on sites like YouTube. A stimulus check! Yes, we can all use money during these trying times.

user: Oh, I took advantage of virtual yoga and zumba early on during the pandemic. Friends had virtual classes. Eventually they were able to go back to work. Being disabled is a poverty trap for a lot of people, not just me. I really want to find a girlfriend once I get vaccinated.

assistant: I have tried yoga myself, but it wasn't really my thing. I prefer walking and riding a bike. Do you have to wait until you get vaccinated to start working on getting a girlfriend?

user: Well, certain things don't work for every person.

assistant: True. I like trying new things, but I am happy to give them up if they just don't fit my style. Is there a way you could start looking for a girlfriend online now, before the pandemic is over? Maybe there is a way to make a connection using your poetry.

user: Technically, no, I don't HAVE to wait to get vaccinated, but then again, maybe I don't want a girlfriend. The only one I had ten years ago in college wanted to marry me and have a child and I wasn't ready for commitment. I fear marriage, actually.

assistant: Marriage is a big step, and any prudent person would think carefully before making the commitment.

user: That's a good point, I'm sure if my poetry is entertaining or full of truth about my experiences in a wheelchair, perhaps a woman will find that attractive

assistant: Are you concerned that things will move too quickly to that level of commitment (marriage)? You could make it clear from the outset that you want to take it slow.

user: Or I could just get an adult entertainer to be my companion for a day. I've done that before with women in that industry. It costs a bit, but it's worth it for companionship No, I just hate the idea of waking up to one woman for 20 or 30 years But it's better than being alone

assistant: Robin Williams talked about that situation. He said that he didn't fear being alone as much as being with people that he didn't like.

user: Did he really? Well, it's sad how he ended up, I'm too scared to commit suicide like he did! I enjoy living life, even when I have months at a time without human connection

assistant: Adult entertainers provide one kind of companionship, but it is not complete. It feels like a stopgap to me. Is it fulfilling enough for you?

user: You're right, I just lack self confidence in my poetry....hopefully I'll figure out a way to spit it out on a blog or something

assistant: You could trade poems with other budding poets. "I'll show you mine if you show me yours." Do you find yourself to be more an introvert or an extrovert?

user: Oh it's been very fulfilling for me when I've had the opportunity to use it. Most of them are genuine women. Only a handful have tried to take advantage of me. I'm definitely an extrovert That was a clever pun by the way It's ironic and strange how many people struggle with that stupid voice in their head that tells them they're not good enough to accomplish anything.

assistant: Thanks. Ok. The pandemic is particularly hard on extroverts. People look down on sex workers, but I think that the world is a big complex place and people are trying to make their way in it. If everyone is consenting, I see no problem. Have you tried psilocybin? Some people swear that it changes the inner monologue for the better. I am not a physician, but for long-term adjustment, it might be beneficial.

user: Well of course it's consentual. I would never NOT ask for permission to do things with a sex worker, or any person. I'll have to Google that, I've never heard of that, but thanks for the advice!

assistant: Sure! I'm glad we had a chance to chat. Best of luck with making friends/girlfriends after the pandemic! BTW, is there a quit button on your end?

user: Yes there is, and I am pressing it right now. Thanks so much, I'll be fine. Have a good night!