This could either be a hardware or a software problem. Have you tried reinstalling the driver for hardware and are you noticing similar problems when attempting to use other other peripherals? One problem might be that you are attempting to plug a hi-speed USB device into a low speed USB port. In which case you might need to upgrade your port. Of course there always could be the possiblity of a virus or worm affecting your system which is why you should always make sure you have an adequate fire wall when pluggin in your USB devices into other machines.
Nothing at all to be ashamed of. Why, even I a world renowned, women want me, men want to be me stud, even I sometimes have trouble "performing". What works for me is to put on my bedmates frilly underthings and go out on my balcony and sing a few verses of "I Feel Pretty" until the neighbors call the police. Invariably when I go back inside I have a turgid polar bear sized swelling in my copious man region! Your mileage may vary, but I think it might be worth a try.