Hello - another newbie here

[michelew]

Hello - I am 58 and live in the East Midlands. I have always suffered from shyness, but in recent years this has got much worse to the extent that aside from going to places and shops that I already know, I rarely venture out. If I have to go somewhere different I end up extremely agitated.

My marriage broke down last year. Now I am living in a new place alone where I don't know anyone. I find it hard to know what I might be able to do to change this. I still work, but there is very little social activity through that. Anything that involves a larger group from work I avoid at all costs (like the Christmas Party).

I have had a bit of a break down and am on a phased return to work. Ideas on what to do bit by bit to overcome going out and meeting new people would be much appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read this...