Social anxiety is stopping me getting out?

Start with a smaller group to get comfortable, maybe one or two friends at the most. Once you're comfortable with that, not just eating, but also starting a conversation, then you can move on to a group of 3 and then 4 and work your way towards being completely free of your social anxiety. I know it sounds easier than it might seem. However the trick is to make a start. If you can't do big than do small. If you can't do dinner, start with a coffee (or something). Don't go out all at once but build up on little steps. And try to do it together with someone. Ask a friend to help you out, maybe give you feedback and support. Hope this helps.

I admire your making the effort to over come this REAL illness. Have you talked to your Doctor, or a therapist? One option is taking medication for social anxiety, but in my opinion, that should be a LAST resort. Talking to a good therapist would help. I think continue socializing one to one, then slowly try to increase to slightly larger groups. Let people know how you feel, and I think many will be understanding once they know you. Please continue growing and learning as a person. You have something GREAT to offer! Be well.

The truth is it will take a bit to overcome, I have had it for 3 years and I am just now getting to where I can say "I'm getting better" it is really hard to deal with sometimes and you mostly have to push yourself to get out and make a friend and talk to their friends. start out with a simple "hey, how are you?" or "I like your shirt!" or "Who does your hair?" etc. it can get easier, but it is up to you to make it happen. I am still working on it.