Discord: Text and voice chat with a (slight) gaming emphasis

Many people have heard of Discord only as a tool for teams to communicate while playing Call of Duty or World of Warcraft. Yet, it’s generally evolved into something much more than that. Although it was originally morsian ItГ¤ -Euroopan created for gamers, the company reported in 2020 that 70% of its users were not using it priing. It’s mainly gained a reputation as a multipurpose messaging site that can be used to host online communities of all kinds.

With a free account, Discord users can enter personal servers to communicate with friends, but there are also many servers open to the public. Each server typically hosts dozens of channels where you can exchange text messages or even voice chats with users from around the web. Discord generally has servers for a wide range of purposes, including the following:

• Streaming and discussing games
• Creating art
• Bringing together fans of particular TV shows, YouTube channels, podcasts, etc.
• Chatting about filmmaking or other creative pursuits
• Talking about sports (and fantasy sports)
• Exchanging memes

There may also be some servers where users can simply talk about anything with no topic limitations. ChillZone may be one of the best-known servers for this, but there can be many others.

Many of Discord’s public servers are moderated, though this may often be handled by bots or volunteers. This app may not be a complete free-for-all, but there’s no guarantee that you won’t see offensive or upsetting content.

Twitch: Streaming-focused chat spaces

Twitch is another platform originally centered around gaming that’s grown far beyond its initial purpose. The app is still built around the channels of content creators who stream live videos for their audiences, but it’s generally no longer just about playing and commenting on games.

Thanks to the rise of “TwitchIRL,” it’s now possible for streamers to talk about anything and everything, and this less-structured content seems to be overtaking game-related streamers in popularity. (Of course, there are still plenty of game streaming channels for those who are interested.)

A big part of Twitch’s appeal for many users is the ability to chat with one another or with the streamers they’re watching. Many channels have developed into tight-knit online communities. And the discussion doesn’t necessarily end when the stream does — users often arrange to hop into other channels to continue conversing there.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in watching a live stream while talking, there are often “Just Chat” channels dedicated entirely to hosting conversations. Twitch can be a great place to talk and bond with people over common interests.

Telegram: Cross-platform messaging for those with safety concerns

If you like the idea of a free messaging service with built-in safety features, you . This service generally enables chat groups ranging from small-group threads for close friends to large-scale discussion forums.

Some have argued that Telegram may not be as reliable as it claims. Regardless of how safe it is, you probably can’t be too careful about discussing sensitive information over the internet. However, as long as you remain cautious, Telegram can be a great resource for meeting and interacting with new people.

Connecting with a therapist can also help with loneliness

While online chat groups may ease feelings of isolation, they typically can’t provide the same kind of dedicated mental health support as a licensed therapist. If you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or other negative emotions related to loneliness, it may be best to seek help from a professional. These days, you can do that online, too.

Benefits of online therapy

Platforms like BetterHelp can empower you to conduct therapy sessions remotely, which can be a fast and convenient way to find a therapist. It may also be a more comfortable option if you find in-person social interactions difficult.