when I am depressed (not at the moment thankfully) i climb back into myself and don't want to go anywhere or do anything...
Sounds to me that you are ready to take a big step and stop being lonely... positive move in the right direction and you are a strong person to be making the step...

Can you join a group/club (I joined Yoga - not really that social but it got me out of the house and doing something back when I REALLY didn't feel up to it)... as for dating.. online perhaps? Treat it as a bit of fun and see who you met...

Good Luck xxxx