Agorophobia and Claustrophobia

[Knuewme]

Since I was maybe 8 I can remember the episode. I didn’t know what it was until in my 20es. I was diagnosed with Agoraphobia and Panic Disorder… which is not like I have hear much Pple have. It’s weird because I can’t be locked up or be ways from my home country for too long. I live in Jamaica and when I travel to USA I have frequent pains and fear. It’s so bad where I feel I want to die to end it. Wearing braids would give me panic because it made me feel like I was restrained even fake nails gave me panic because it felt as if I had something that couldn’t not be removed. When I got braces the gag thing that open my mount made me feel like I was going to die and having on the braces gave me full panics. Now my husband wants to move to US permanently and I’m freaking out. I don’t think I can’t even do the flight much less move permanently. My eyes have been itch and sore for pass week and I have been to the dr twice freaking out because sometime my vision blurry and it gives me panic. I think I need help because I’m can’t manage a 2 hour flight to Florida must more moving permanently. Plus my marriage is a bit shaky in my mind because I husband doesn’t speak much and he always on his phone and changing password and sometimes I get him lying. I don’t think it reaches cheating but I see him liking lots of women pics on social media and he says it nothing. I feel overwhelmed like I don’t want to be married too because I don’t think we communicate on the same level. I’m always working and takeing care of the kids and he comes off entitled sometimes. He been cooking today and will help around the house but he doesn’t understand my phobia and fears. He keeps saying America has more opportunities for him and the kids so I need to get over the fears. He seems to love me but sometimes he is so reserved.

Anyways, I need to get over the fears and even when I flying I take DPH pills to get me sleeping, but when the plan door closes I feel trap and want to get out… I have to be talking myself through the whole process. My cousins begging me to come to NYC and I told her hell no to 3 hours flight. But it’s strange thought because I don’t mine cruising… I just hate to be compact in any space… I pray everyday, I just start changing my diet and doing exercise… will see how I feel in next months ahead…😇

[Agora1]

Hi Knuewme and Welcome.

I did struggle with Agoraphobia but never Claustrophobia. I'm sorry you suffer both.

After reading your post, it seems like Claustrophobia is more of an issue in your homeland.

Agoraphobia (fear of the open market space) can happen when the fears all around you

are overwhelming. Moving to a new country is a big change for sure but I think that the

fear may start right within your own home right now.

It is extremely difficult when family does not understand the impact that this fear

plays on us. Just get over it doesn't do it. Even if there were a switch we could turn on

and off, as long as there are issues/situations around us, the fear doesn't leave. You are

kind of in an iffy position and as long as that exists, the idea of moving to another country

is an unreal step to take. I certainly understand. I'm glad that you have reached out to us.

I think you need all the support you can get right now. It doesn't get better until these

issues are addressed. I wish you comfort and peace and answers to your fears xx

[Knuewme in reply to Agora1]

Thank you for your kind words

[gajh]

Hello. Welcome. I can relate to agoraphobia too. You are not alone.

[Turnipgirl]

In my experience agoraphobia and claustrophobia play off each other!

When I was frightened of going out I was well aware it was irrational but I couldn't help it when I felt terrified!

Today I managed to brave the crowded buses at 3pm and survived and wasn't terrified as at one time I wouldn't even attempt to go near them due to being terrified!

Thing is why should I miss out due to irrational fears?