Avoiding Loneliness in Thailand

Is it possible to feel alone and isolated when living as a RIPper (Retiree In Paradise) in Thailand?

Why in such a social culture would you feel lonely? And how can you prevent it?
Whether new technologies such as the Internet and mobile phones exacerbate social isolation is a debatable topic. With the creation of online social networking communities, there are more and more options to become involved in social activities that do not require physical interaction with real people. Chat applications, message boards, and other types of online communities are now meeting the need for those who would rather stay home alone. But living one’s life primarily or exclusively online is not an adequate substitute for real-world friendships.
When you live in Thailand you can have the best life imaginable but there could be some challenges that can lead to loneliness. The language barrier could keep somebody from attempting to make new friends. Also some will latch on to the first person that they can communicate with and have companionship with. But in some situations this can exacerbate the problem of loneliness as well.
A lot of Farang who live in Thailand make the decision to have a relationship with a Thai. But what happens when you split up or finish with the relationship? This situation can create a big loss of social interaction especially if the Thai’s friends were the majority of your social circle. If the Farang who hasn’t learned the language puts all their attention on their partner and lets them also control the daily interactions because they are Thai and then suddenly find themselves alone, it can lead to loneliness and isolation living in a foreign country without a social network.
What’s the solution? If living in Thailand you must learn to function by yourself. I recommend not getting into a relationship until you become your own best friend. That way you aren’t jumping into a relationship out of being needy on some level. You need to watch and learn how things work in your new home and make sure you can attend to simple things and not be solely dependent on your Thai partner. Also it is a good idea to take up a sport or hobby or visit expats clubs or member meetings to make friends so in the event that you are left alone you have people to socialize with.
My suggestion is also to learn the basic language skills needed to make Thai friends and not be shy about using those skills to meet new friends. Thais are social and if you make a connection with them you will never feel isolated or lonely.

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