How to overcome my anxiety and shyness? It's really making me feel lonely?

I see a bit of my younger self in you and i really hope i can help. Being a teenager can be tough but the best thing i learnt is be yourself but most importantly be confident with who you are. As you've realised as you've grown up it's more ok to be different and you need to recognise that you have friends and that people do like you for who you are. Begin to recognise who you are and pin point your likes and interests, style and hobbies etc. Then you just need to gain confidence. Drama club is a very good way to do this but you also need to realise you do have people that care for you and who you are. Invite some of your close friends you mentioned to a sleepover and develop your friendship further. Find similarities and things you can all talk about and go on lots of outings to the mall or bowling etc. so that you can make memories. Don't do what I did. I was always afraid that no one really liked me and i would then just shut myself away. You are special and people do like you, you just have to keep reminding yourself about this. Forget the people from your old school and focus on what you have, which is as you said yourself, lots of close friends and other friends too. You are very lucky that you have these friends and you just need to develop these friendships further. Act confident, be fun, be socialable and invite them out and make sure they know that your a fun and great friend to have. If you feel like crying try talking to a parent or sibling. Let them know what's happening and i'm sure they have advice too. I know it's so hard but you gain confidence everytime you spend time with friends and realise they like your company even if you are yourselve. Stay socialble and fun and don't let your anxeity run you down.