I too understand how you feel. I was married to a very controlling man for 4 years & during that time distanced myself from my friends. A few years into our marriage, I literally did not have 1 friend I could call to hang out with or call for advice. It was very lonely & I was scared to death when my marriage eventually ended.

I ended up becoming friends with a few people I met on a social networking site. After emailing & chatting numerous times, I was finally able to meet these people in person & for the past 5 years they have been my main social circle.

Making new friends, meeting new people, & allowing yourself to trust others even if it is just to open the door to receive a package can be hard. Opening that door or chatting up the cashier at the grocery store as you check out is a start. Hopefully, doing small things like this will bring you out of your shell.

Things will get better & eventually you will find it easier to talk to people. You may want to try attending some meetings for group therapy such as, Co-Dependants Anonymous. Attending these meetings will give you the opportunity to meet new people & learn to speak to strangers knowing for sure they will NOT judge you in anyway. Meetings helped me through my divorce & definitely helped get me out of my shell.

I hope my suggestions helped & you take that first step. You'll feel great once you do.