Man, loneliness is so hard. How old are you? Do you do anything socially? Any dating sites, go to church, Navy events, etc.? What is your situation you don't want people to take advantage of? Tell me more. You sound like you have so many good qualities to offer.

I'm wondering about the same things BCat asked. Loneliness has never really been one of my trials, but I have been lonely in the past for the right type of people, and eventually I found them and it has made life much richer. Sometimes it's a matter of getting yourself out there and finding your tribe.

I'm sorry you are dealing with these feelings. I know how terrible it is. I too suffer from crippling loneliness. You seem so accomplished. I'm honestly surprised your social life is lacking. I agree, making and keeping good friends can be difficult. In what way have others tried taking advantage of you? You definitely shouldn't allow that. If you need someone to talk to, please feel free to message me. I wish you the best.

anxiety can make you not trust people and not be willing to connect with them, as you suspect them of wanting your stuff. In some ways it's better to have no stuff, and no fear than it is to have stuff, and fear.

I would join a hobby group, doesn't really matter what. Small bore shooting? rollerblading? Orienteering? harriers? Whatever. Some social club that has an activity you can join in on every month. A very slow start? Yes. And just attend. within 1 or 2 years I bet you will have found at least one friend. I know that's my friendship rate. In the last 3 years I have made 2 friends, one of whom wants me to join her church and will eventually tire of me; the other who is shy and we don't see much of each other.

But that's fine. Give me another 3 years and then I will have 2 real friends, and 2 (or back down to 1) fake friend. That's fine. It's a slow journey.

That or start going out to night clubs and pick up a girlfriend. :p