I don't know about you, but when I "have to" do something, it always makes it seem worse.
It's funny you should post this question. I have a job interview in 3 hours and I'm terrified. I have been working (a job that was a rut, but I was comfortable), but I had to quit my job so we could move to a new city. I've been putting off finding anything 'till I could work up the nerve to go for an interview.
My suggestion would be: start by apply for things on-line. You might feel more comfortable if you weren't somewhere unfamiliar while filling out an application. Next, if you do get an interview, have someone acompany you there (not in the interview, of course, just outside in the car or something). My husband is going with me today. Don't worry about the question "what have you done in the past 3 years". Just say something like, "I took a few years off to work on some other projects, but now I'm ready to get back in the work force."
I'm nervous, but kind of excited about getting a new job. I had the same one for 10 years. I hated it, but I didn't want to try something new. Now that I have to, I'm not as uncomfortable about the idea as I thought I'd be. I'm looking forward to getting out of the house and being with other people all day. I'm also excited about having a routine again. Not knowing what to do all day makes me panicky.
Good Luck to you. You can do it! Just fill out some applications on like (monster, hotjobs, etc.). It will get you in the mindset and you'll be more comfortable. I hope this helps.
Katie