wittykitty

I got problems well in the pass 2-3 days I can't get anything to open no programs or if I do it takes forever or a total fluke. I click onto a icon and it won't open then when I go ctrl/alt/delete it comes up not responding.
This happened about a month ago but then all was fine and it wasn't as bad then as now.
You are probably wondering how I'm on here now well the "my computer' program will open immediately for some strange reason (since nothing else well) I then get on the internet explorer that way but even when I do I can't click on any link or search or anything like that or I'm in the not responding situation again.
I just called my internet provider he said there is no techinical problems he can see But he said that I'm using up my broadband as if I'm downloading alot of music or movies well I'm not doing that I haven't downloaded any music in 2 weeks or more and never movies. So when I told him that he said you could have a virus which I don't know how I got that??? He said it's definitely a computer problem not internet problem.
So do any of the experts here think that is the problem and if so what do I do now? He said to run my anti virus but I can't get it to open so how can I run it?? Is there some other way to get it to open I've tried it through the start menu, the toolbar and the desktop icon. Oh I did manage to get it open but when I click on it run it it was guess what not responding.
I'm kinda figuring I'll need to take it to a computer repair shop cause I'm a real dummie when it comes to the 'guts' of a computer but if any of you can help and think there is something I could at least try let me know PLEASE.
thanx in advance