Sadly for the past ten years I have pushed away many friends and potential friends.  Anxiety and depression just made me somewhat antisocial, self-isolated, and more focused on myself and my own worries.  This phenomenon is actually fairly typical amongst anxiety sufferers but it's the complete opposite of this behavior that could be making us happier and less anxious people. Closeness to other human beings is extremely essential.  From a purely psychological perspective this makes perfect sense.  Being close to other individuals ensures a