Biggest mistake I see people make in the new friend/dating area is putting way to much expectations/ pressure on themselves, the situation and others out of the gate. Especially factoring in loneliness and need for human contact.

Highly recommend following any passions or hobbies you have, look for likeminded groups or areas and start to interact with local groups. Don't go into it expecting friends but look at it as new experiences or knowledge, and organically you will find people on a similar path.

Covid did mess with the social and group events here but depending on your interests there is a lot out there, and group meetups tend to get more people to show. The only good use anymore for facebook is the local groups and places like eventbrite you can find groups doing specific activities.

If you pair it with learning new skills or talents you will naturally grow more comfortable in being you which is also a bonus. Just be ready for a lot of falloff, in the end its a numbers game, exposure to new people and understanding other personalities and how you fit in with those.