Hey!
So I noticed you're a new member and (correct me if I'm wrong, anyone else) I think I had the same problem when I first joined. You have to have made a certain number of posts/threads (not sure the exact number) before you have access to things like messaging people, chat, and I believe the search function, too. If I remember correctly, the search bar only appeared for me once I had written a certain number of comments. So if you interact a little bit, it shouldn't take too long!