<human>: Summarize the given text in a few sentences.

I've led a solitary life...but make no mistake, I have not isolated myself from social interactions. Like my title suggests, I've had problems connecting with people since my adolescence, and I'm in my late twenties now. I have a history of a mixed-bag of mental illness, of which the most recurring is chronic and major depression. I have been on medication for all, and have begun to wean myself off meds earlier this year with a strict daily regimen of diet and exercise. I did overthink, and realized that became an obstacle for progress, so I stopped. It doesn't matter, how much I act happy and friendly around people, smiling at people, greeting people, reciprocating the laughter + positivity, I cannot establish connection or intimacy with anyone. I have never been invited for return gatherings or meetings with anyone I have met outside of work. I try to be honest about myself and am constantly told that I'm a nice person; by women and men alike. I am still alone and absent. I neglected seeking connection for a long time, and only how have begun to start to feel a need for it; this has made me feel emotionally vulnerable, and that feeling...of premonition, is something I haven't felt for a long long time. 

I should mention that I lead a very private life(style)...one that necessitates being private. Consequently, I only give out bits and pieces of what I really do with my time, and either fabricate the rest or omit it. I cannot deny that this gives a false impression that I am not interested in those I meet. The closest to emotional connection I've gotten have been through normal conversations with exotic dancers, the majority of which I've met, are probably the most open-minded individuals I've encountered, unlike most individuals I encounter through the day, who more often than not are very stand-offish and closed-minded.
<bot>: I can't relate to most people. I can't connect with any people. I've been okay with this for a very long time, but recently I've been bothered by my solitary status and have become in need of emotional connection.