How to deal with people?

Hi there, wasn't so sure where to post this. If it's in the wrong forum sorry! I've got really bad social anxiety and I'm really shy. I've been trying to get a job and get out the house and sometimes I fear of leaving the house and getting out because I'm always in side most of the time. I often get anxiety/panic attacks when I'm around a bunch of crowds and other events. I have a medical provider through board of developmental disabilities and sometimes when I try to get out the house I Start to get panic attacks when I try to mingle with other people. And for example, I had to quit my last job because my anxiety got pretty bad I let someone bully me at the work place and quit, that was my fault but my boss wasn't so friendly either. I really want to find a new job but I don't know how do deal with rude people or deal with people in general. Anyone ever experienced the same situation I'm in? I'm mostly afraid of getting bullied because I have a history of it. Should I try taking it slow and get out the house as much as I can? I don't exercise much so I plan on going to the YMCA and such and try to start meeting people. Thanks for advice.

I'd try going out in small chunks. Maybe going around the block and build up. I have the same problem with going out.

What if you were to start out by doing a bit of volunteering? This would gradually get you back into the public at a pace you are able to set out for yourself. This would also be valuable experience on a resume.

Yes, I deal with this too. It's not a choice to stay in....it's a public safety accommodation.

The YMCA is a good idea. If you can manage it of course. Volunteering is a good idea too, if you can manage it.

Don't blame yourself for letting someone bully you. They are in the wrong, not you. I've stood up for myself a few times and it turned out MUCH worse. The bully is to blame, not you. If someone gets on an elevator and gets a bad feeling about the person who gets on with them but ignores it and is then attacked, is it the persons fault for not following their instinct? Clearly it's the fault of the aggressor.

Finding a GOOD counselor (good luck, it's like finding a sparkling pink unicorn) working on the trauma which caused you to get like this could be very helpful. Best of luck to you.