Autism & Significant Disability?

I feel like I'm almost alone online. I seem to be surrounded by people with Asperger's who despite this, are able to manage college and university, often are able to work and socialise freely...

In my case, I'm confined to the house most days -- often too scared or just to exhausted to go out. When I do go out it's almost always a frightening and I'm usually on the verge of a panic attack the whole time. (Unless of course I drink until I'm drunk before leaving home).

I read so many stories about what a positive thing autism can be and how we are such a resource to society, but all I see is disability and dependency :(.

You?