<p>This may or may not apply to the OP, but I'm just adding by way of information: Some people have crippling shyness and anxiety in social situations that do not respond well to the kinds of interventions described above. They have what is called "social axiety disorder", and it can have a profoundly inhibiting effect on their life. For such people, there are medications (such as Paxil) which can greatly reduce these feelings and allows such individuals to participate in and enjoy new social interactions that they would have previously totally avoided or suffered through. If one were considering exploring this possibility, a consultation with a psychiatrist would be necessary. (and let me repeat, I am not making a judgement as to whether this applies to the original poster).</p>