Help for relapse

[dreamwalker]

Hey guys so first time post here but ive been out of counseling for a while ever since the virus cancelling down stuff and i think that has caused me to relapse a bit. i struggle with agoraphobia and its been hard getting out like i used to before because of the virus and just because where i can go im struggling. i made alot of progress and im falling back. does anybody have any tips to help on how to get back to where i was or make some improvement. ive been exercising more and have been outside sitting outside of my house but i only started doing this recently. any tips for that or just having better days with anxiety or to help lower my anxiety levels?

[Waiting4themoon]

Hi Dreamwalker,

Welcome to this forum. You have joined a good group of caring and supportive people who won't judge you.

The shutdown that governments have imposed on people is really hard. It is hard on everyone. But in particular for people who are struggling with their mental health. My anxiety is certainly worse as a result.

I understand from your post that the progress that you have made has been in being able to have the confidence to go out and about. With the shutdown you aren't able to get that practice and feel that you are at risk of slipping backwards.

Good for you for having the courage to sit outside your house. That is a great step forward and a show of independence from the anxious voice inside.

I'm not sure where you live but I was wondering if you are allowed to go out for a daily exercise near your house? The streets where I live are really quite empty and quiet. I was wondering if that is the same where you live and if that would make it easier for you to get out?

I was wondering if it is only your anxiety that is telling you that you are slipping backwards? It may be an idea to review the sessions that you had with your counsellor and maybe journal some of the ideas that you covered in those sessions. You may want to share some of them here with us.

Let us know how you are getting on.

Take care and be well.

[dreamwalker in reply to Waiting4themoon]

Thanks for the reply. The quarantine is really kind of relaxed so you can go out to essential places still but stay home for stuff you really dont need to do and there really isnt much to do haha. But i do have a plan to just going for walks down my street with my dog so i just need to keep that up and make progress like you said. And i do have a stationary bike outside so i can also do that. As long as i do something to improve i think will really help.

[Hidden]

Think you are adapting well. A routine of tasks to do might help work through the day . Ironing is great or hanging out washing. Then you have your leisure hours to enjoy. I wear a muffler or a stretch neck scarf which can cover the neck and nose and mouth as can breathe warm air and protect myself shopping. Hope you can keep in contact with your folks as they need to hear from you too. Take care.

[dreamwalker in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the reply. I think having a routine will help alot somehow. I'll have to think it over but i think when i do have the time to relax after doing some tasks will make me enjoy it more.