Welcome to he forums, EllenG.
Your hands are full at the moment so being able to chill out with friends would be desirable. I'm with you, social isolation makes it difficult.
The problem is that there is no building friendship without putting ourselves out there and mingling with people. Shunning contact only serves to reinforce self-effacing tendencies and confirm the false belief that we are unlovable. Getting off this vicious circle doesn't come easy...
I don't drink either but meet people who share common interests. Going out for lunch or a coffee is another option. I have found volunteering to be a great way to meet caring, compassionate people. If you are so inclined, contacting your local Community or Neighbourhood Centre could help point you in the right direction.
There are coping strategies to help with anxiety. Have you checked mindfulness, relaxed breathing, relaxed body scan ? Smiling Mind is a helpful app. So are Buddhify and Headspace. It is hard, persistent work but the mind can be trained (why aren't we told this in western cultures ???).
Meanwhile, navigating these forums allows you to connect and interact online with lots of people who understand what anxiety is all about. There is even a Social Zone with its own virtual Cafe where members can kick back and relax.
Good to have you on board.
