My situation was nowhere similar to yours or OP’s, but back when I was dealing with depression a church group I was volunteering with was one of the main factors in my recovery. I met people that really helped me change for the better and helped give me at least a temporary purpose in life.

There were some days when I didn’t want to do anything, but due to my obligations as a formal member of the group I had to show up. This really helped me since it really forced me to get out and actually do something and not doomscroll YouTube Shorts.

I don’t want to make this specific to any religion or belief system, but in my experience groups centered around a place of worship and focused on service are some of the best ways to create social bonds as an adult. There are also other men’s groups that aren’t religious that fit this: Lions Club, Rotary Club, Veterans Outposts.