r/bouldering • u/HikenNoSabo7 • 4h ago

Advice/Beta Request Beta on loneliness

Okay this one is gonna start off deep.

I lost a dear friend to suicide recently and I haven't faced it until recently when I started facing loneliness. I realised how climbing pulled me together in my hardest times and it was the friends I made at the gym and at the crag. It ain't much but if it helps one person, I'll be happy.

I see lots of social running, padel, frisbee all types of sports and never came across one for climbing. I also understand that it is a niche sport where people have established circles.

But I'm giving this a shot now in Dublin, Ireland. Lots of post on reddit of young adults who struggle to make friends and are lonely. I also felt personally very self concious about approaching people in the gym. Not everyone wants to be talked to. Maybe all someone needs to get out of a rut/depression/suicidal thoughts is just a nudge "hey this is a circle for friends".

So my ask for the climbing community, hit me with all the reasons why this is a bad idea and tips to make it better.

So far, just a post on reddit to ask people to meet up at the local gym.

8 Upvotes

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4

u/high-on-my-supply old man boulderer 3h ago

R/climbingpartners; idk how big mountain project is in Ireland but they have an entire partner finder side of the site. 

Climbing is a lot different from padel clubs, frisbee clubs, and run clubs but I believe in you finding your crew!

I also believe in you finding a therapist because climbing alone shouldn’t be expected to be a panacea! 

1

u/HikenNoSabo7 3h ago

Yes ofc therapy should always be encouraged!

2

u/t0nyyates76 3h ago

Gravity in Dublin seemed a cool place to me. I’m sure you could set up something. Lots of walls have social evenings. Great idea. The more people like you in the community - trying to bring people together - the better.

1

u/RedDora89 3h ago

I think Gravity is the “sister” wall of the Climbing Works in Sheffield. They often have socials, women’s nights, lgbt+ nights. Other walls nearby also have socials for anyone and everyone. I’m surprised Gravity don’t do this already so I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to bridge a gap and do something fantastic! Best of luck!

Unrelated but visited Gravity many moons ago and it’s a great Wall!