Hello, and welcome to the board, ddean!
Everyone here has made great comments. What really helped me was reading a lot and writing a lot. First, I read on topics that I had always wanted to read, but either didn't have the time or felt like I was discouraged to do so, or was downright afraid to read (such as serious material on evolution - I was afraid to have my faith seriously challenged). I read a lot of science, philosophy, some religion, and politics during the first few months after leaving.
You mentioned that you felt better just writing about your experiences. That's certainly my experience, too. I like to muse when I write, just muse about the day, some experience I had, some concept I'm turning over in my mind - you know what I mean. I keep a personal journal, as well, which allows me to muse on more private topics. I believe that writing is profoundly helpful to the human mind.
And, of course, you have to have community. This board is a great place for it, but it helps to be involved in the real world, too. Maybe there's a club or group that shares one of your interests? A book group? A hiking club? Something like that might help to establish a peer network in this brave new world.
Just some thoughts. So glad to have you aboard! See you around.
SNG