So Misunderstood...

[SMStuder]

Hi all.. I have anxiety, panic disorder & agoraphobia. I taken medication for years, but still cannot shake the way I feel. I'm having issues with in-laws because they expect me to attend every get together they have. If I do not show up, due to it being a really bad day for me, it's hell to pay. They refuse to understand how I feel. It's not personal, but I'm made to feel guilty and bad mouthed over it. How can I deal with this situation? I am completely fed up! How do I make them understand that I just can't snap out of it?

[FixingThePineapple]

I had a similar situation and I searched for things like "how to explain anxiety" or "how anxiety effects your brain." I sat down with the person one day and read from a few choice articles. Other people were able to explain it in a way I couldn't and we also learned ways that my illnesses change my brain activity.

It will also help in your situation, I think, if you find some kind of data suggesting how common these illness are.

Try asking them how they feel about your absences, I'm sure it comes from a good place. But show concern for their feelings as well because they truly are oblivious of this kind of pain. I'm sure if you let them know you do want to attend all of their gatherings, it's just hard for you because... and then share some info you learn online.

I hope things get better!