It definitely isn't easy to step outside of that "shell" when you're repeatedly burned, I definitely understand how that shell can just get thicker over time and become a comfort zone. On the flip side of things it's so encouraging that you haven't let this totally keep you down, FIVE bible studies--Reading that put a BIG smile on my face--AWESOME!!! Genuine/loyal friends really are a great support to.
Hope everything from here on out only gets better for you :o)
xox