Hi Matt,

My advice, if you want it: spend some time thinking about what you're doing and where you're going. And I don't just mean in your studies. You say you go home in the evening, cook your dinner, watch TV and go to bed. I can relate to that - I did the same for a long time. It's difficult to get out of that kind of a rut. For me, the break came by joining a sports club in uni. Don't join a soccer team, join a club where there are women too. Like a dance club, or martial arts (depends what kind it is if you'll find women there - worked for me, though) or similar. Sports clubs are great for socializing + you'll get yourself into shape and it'll stave off the depression. Also, let's face it, if you're fit, you look good - if you're not, you don't. People like people who look good.

And also, you know, don't just think about these things a little bit now and then. Think about them real hard - actually set time aside to do it. Write down your findings, structure your thoughts. It's all too easy to just sit there with a cup of coffee, aiming to think about this stuff, and just somehow end up thinking about how sorry you are for yourself, or ending up with unrealistic ideas on how to solve your problem. Don't end up in that trap - treat it as a real problem in need of a realistic solution.

Then make a plan and make it happen. Set up goals, set up deadlines and follow up regularly on your progress:
+ friends -> join club(s)
+ girlfriend -> join club(s), talk to girls, some are bound to like you
+ depression -> do sports. Socialize more.
+ house -> do you want the PhD or the house? Be realistic, you can't have both right now.
+ PhD -> do you want it. If not, then do something else. If yes, then you're on your way.
+ ...

You can do anything if you want. Heck, you're even doing a PhD right now, for crying out loud. Now just apply those skills and make them work for you also when it comes to designing your own happiness. In the end, that's what will matter.