Take comfort in the fact that a huge number of people feel the same way - conversations with strangers or even friends can be nerve-wracking. I had counselling

Take comfort in the fact that a huge number of people feel the same way - conversations with strangers or even friends can be nerve-wracking. I had counselling for anxiety problems not too long ago. You are unique and so I can't offer any specific advice other than if you can afford it, or get it free (eg. in the UK on the NHS for example) then it will help, and you will feel better. Try to find a counsellor who has specific experience with anxiety or depression issues (most will) and talk to them openly about your fears. If you can't get counselling, then find someone who's opinions you respect and try asking them about it. I was hugely surprised once I told people I was getting therapy, and many of my friends were in similar situations! It might appear like other people are confident and sociable and have loads of friends, but lots of people are just as scared as you are.