Hi Liv!
I'm sorry you are dealing with what you feel might be social anxiety. I don't really know what advice to give you, except to say if I were you I would keep myself as comfortable as I can and avoid social events that would make me uncomfortable. Are you under stress that may be causing you to feel less social? Or has something happened to you in a social setting that has made you uncomfortable? Just wondering, since you said you were once a hugely social person, and the job you once had would definitely require being very outgoing and social.

The physical symptoms you described sound very much like they could be brought on by anxiety. I can identify with the muscle tightness, it seems to happen to me when I am in big crowds of people. I know you said you have a major problem accepting help from doctors and receiving medications, but it might be a good idea to seek help as far as getting therapy. Sometimes just talking and receiving some professional feedback can be extremely helpful. I have never been to a therapist that tried to force medication on me, it was always an option, but not a requirement. Also a therapist can give you helpful tips that can identify why you are feeling the way you are, and maybe give you a few exercises to use for when you are feeling this anxiety.

I don't know if you will benefit from what I've just written, but I hope you feel better.

Best Wishes,
Zen