Dear Zen ~ I can identify with everything you are saying. I have an anxiety disorder which does not allow me to leave the house unless I absolutely have to for some reason. I would imagine that, if you can make yourself do so, the best bet for getting a life is to attend public events of various kinds. You can start a conversation by finding something you can genuinely compliment someone on or by approaching someone else who seems to be alone and just asking how they are. You might also try going to the same restaurant daily to drink coffee or tea. Friends should follow, if you are consistent. People do not care so much about what we are like. They care about how we make them feel about themselves. billieJ