Yes, there is hope. Don't work your life away, and actually get out and do things. Places I've met people: roleplaying groups, kink communities, hobby-related conferences and workshops, local events, completely random social IRC channels. It can take just one off-hand comment on a shared interest to lead to a conversation and a spark.

Also note that the sort of person who finds enjoyment in automating away social interaction is unlikely to be enjoyable to socially interact with.