I started pushing myself out to some meetups about 2 years ago. And it was very terrifying to start with. I just made myself start trying. I went to groups that had programs and presentations where I could be with people without having to say much or interact a lot. It's gotten easier and I've gotten to know some of the people in some of the groups. No real close friendship -- that's a ways away for me -- but at least I don't feel so alone all the time. And it's progress, that's better than it was.