Another stupid question I doubt anyone can answer.

How do people make friends? I know that seems like a silly question, but I grew up entirely alone -- my family hates me, and I never had friends growing up (still don't have any). Never so much as been on a date or hugged a girl, none of that.

I know it sounds selfish, but I have incredibly bad anxiety / depression, to the point that they wanted to put me in a mental home if I wasn't so terrified of death that they know I'd never hurt myself. Being around other people lets me forget about all my issues for a while, and I can actually enjoy myself and be less miserable than usual (don't know that I've ever been happy though) -- that's a big part of why I like playing MMOs.

But, ever since I got out of school 5 years ago, I've been more alone than ever. I used to see people at school every day, even if no one talked to me, so I didn't feel entirely alone. Now though, I go days without talking, and the only time anyone talks to me is if they need something.

So, I want to ask how people make friends, where nerds hang out, all that, but I know it'd be pointless in the end, since I'd be too afraid to let anyone in, and just end up driving everyone away. I want to at least feel like I tried before I accept reality and just give up though.