OP, I feel you! The thing about anxiety is that it makes people subconsciously resist change. Anxiety is associated with feeling out of control- that’s essentially what triggers it and fuels it. Change is always scary and it’s often driven by factors we can’t control, which is why change makes people like you and me anxious.
When the lockdown started, the idea of being home all the time made me anxious. Now that I’m in this safe cocoon, I don’t want to go out.
I’m also clinically vulnerable, so that amplifies the anxiety. Like you, I don’t feel comfortable going to restaurants, crowded places or even meeting people indoors.
So spooky you mention that theatre, I’m a huge fan of it too. I used to go all the time, I’d even go alone if I couldn’t find a friend to go with. But I know it’ll be a looooong time before I feel confident and comfortable enough to do that.
It’s hard, but the best thing we can do is to be kind to ourselves. If you don’t feel comfortable doing something, don’t let anyone rush you into it. Peer pressure is extreme right now, with most people just desperate to pretend that Covid has vanished because Boris decided it’s ok to open everything. I think last experience proves that’s not true. If you do eventually want to go out or meet people, cautious baby steps is the best approach.
Go at a time when it’s less likely to be crowded, don’t necessarily book the most popular restaurants, look for outdoor seating etc.
But only when you’re ready! It’s ok to want more time, and it’s ok to only feel safe at home. I am in exactly the same place and I’m doing what my psychologist suggested and being kind and patient with myself.