I used to feel pretty lonely too, so I understand where you're coming from.

I think it's important not to let others dictate your happiness. Don't rely on them to make you happy.

Sure, friends can make you happy, but what happens if you lose all of your new friends? Then you'll be back to square one: you'll feel lonely and like an outcast again.

To make yourself truly happy, you need to find things that you like that don't involve other people. For example, do you have a favorite hobby? Maybe try out some new things you've never tried before. And you know what? That's a great way to make friends -- finding people who like the same things as you do. The anxiety and fear will probably go away too. You'll feel like a natural when you're preoccupied with your hobby, and you will be distracted from your anxious thoughts.