To everyone who answered - thank you so much. I've hardly any friends, so to have this many people to bother replying made me feel...good.

Rusty9 - thank you for your advice. I did indeed try it and I'm surprised it actually worked for me. Next time my thoughts stray down that dark path I'll use this method and hopefully it'll be successful in keeping my head.

To those who suggested talking to my doctor - I haven't told my GP this problem as such but she does know that I've got these sorts of issues, and I now have a letter of referral to go to a psychologist. I plan to book myself an appointment as soon as possible.

Leed - I wasn't told I was "bad" but I've been told that I'm going to end up homeless, that I'm stupid, that no one likes me, that I'm useless, etc, by friends and that I'm not smart enough by my school several years ago. I've been told enough, so I believe it. I don't know if that's why I feel the way I do but I'm guessing it has something to do with it...possibly so does the lack of friendships, the lack of relationships and the fact that I've never really been told that I'm smart, pretty, beautiful, etc. Not that I want compliments constantly, but it would be nice if SOMEONE said something like "oh hey, I like your hair today."

But I'm different to others so I guess that's not going to happen...