whoswho, I was in your shoes in my early twenties. Left my job due to an anxiety provoking situation with a co-worker. That was the last straw, had been struggling with anxiety throughout my teens. Pretty much homebound for 2 years. Slowly I emerged from my cocoon just as you have been advised to do, one step at a time. Now as an old lady in my 60's, I find everything in life is relative. For example, if your life were to suddenly change where your help was necessary to someone who depended on you, much of what you're feeling now would be put on the back burner. Healing will begin when you change your focus. Whenever our main focus is turned inward, we are our own worst enemy. Think outside the box. For one thing, you're an excellent writer. During this time of healing, why not try writing. Like painting, you may find it self-fulfilling. I feel there are no cures for sensitive, emotional types. But these feelings can be managed and controlled to an extent. Believe me, you will not stay in the place you are now, every decade of life presents new situations. What is so disturbing to you now will fade in time with new challenges to meet. One priceless thing you have is time. Many years left to grow and learn to be comfortable with yourself. Be patient, if I could recover so can you.