You sound overwhelmed when you describe going out.

Yes, therapy can help you. But take it slow. Think about getting help and feeling better. When those thoughts start to get scary and cause anxiety (as it seems to happen for some of us when we think about something a while) switch to thinking of something else, something pleasant, comforting. Switch as if you are clicking a TV remote to change a channel... Make an appointment with a therapist and commit to just that one appointment, keeping your thoughts from expanding and beginning the 'what if' scenarios that scare us. Plan ahead; ask a friend to go with you so you will feel more comfortable. After your appointment, treat yourself (and your friend?) to something special: lunch, coffee, or whatever would be a treat for you (my treats are usually buying a new paperback book: also, my books are my security blanket and I usually have one wherever I go).

It sounds like an oxymoron, but it is actually the truth: that we feel better when we face our fears. We feel proud when we can find the courage to try; afterward we can be proud of our great accomplishment. And getting out, getting help, putting one foot in front of the other in spite of the fear in our hearts is indeed a great and courageous accomplishment!

Here is an interesting and informative site you might want to visit! www.aboutpsychotherapy.com