I have this exact issue. I spent 31 months in a mental hospital and now that I'm out I'm experiencing all sorts of depression and anxiety and self esteem issues. I volunteer at the local humane society and seem to have a girl there that is interested in me but I can't muster up the courage to ask her out. Thinking about it gives me even worse anxiety. Then I overthink the whole situation thinking no she wasn't really that into me I imagined everything and getting all panicky over what will happen if she says no.

Being in that hospital for 2 1/2 years messed me up. I was fine while I was there, even chatted a few girls up but now that I'm out I'm an emotional wreck.