Advice please

[Andypandy30]

I have a play to attend this week and I am so anxious about it . I deal with agoraphobia and anxiety and depression . I have my safe zone . This is only 10 mins away in a car which I don't like doing . I.e. travelling . So this makes me anxious . Also I do not want to let my daughter down as it is her first big performance in a big theatre . I am overthinking everything and worrying myself sick . I paid for end seat ticket and will have to travel by taxi . I have no one to go with . I'm worried please help me . I just want to be normal and not worry about things that other people can do all the time . I have bought a ticket for each performance thurs nite fri nite sat matinee and sat nite . I know I will be lucky to go to one due to how I'm feeling but I need so much support x

[tamka38]

U should go and enjoy yourself..Do it for your daughter. Once u got there u should be ok. Take slow deep breaths and takes breaks to the restroom if u need too. Praying for u.

[Andypandy30 in reply to tamka38]

Thank you so much tamka38 xx

[gemfire]

This sounds so much like me! If history tells you anything you'll know that once you get there it won't be anywhere near as bad as your imagination thought it would be. You just have to get there and try not to think about how you're feeling. When I'm in that position I bring my iPod with me and play games on it to keep me distracted until the show starts. One of my favorite sayings applies here: "Remember this, you've survived every bodily sensation and panic attack that you've ever had!"

You can do this! Try to enjoy the performances

[Andypandy30 in reply to gemfire]

Thank you gemfire I was thinking about doing something like that . I haven't got an iPod is there things I can download on my phone . I just got a new one so haven't tried anything on it yet . So suggestions to download and thank you for input x

[gemfire in reply to Andypandy30]

I like match 3 games such as the Wizard of Oz or a game like The Secret Society - Hidden Mystery Game (both are free games in the app store) which keeps you thinking strategy rather than physical symptoms. There's a lot more, it all depends on which ones will keep your attention the most.

[Raiycut]

I always find that the worry is worse than the situation. I am a champion at avoiding placez as i have usually spent weeks worrying and getting wound up.. theres no go to answer , but we all know the feeling. You are not alone . Best of luck .

[Andypandy30 in reply to Raiycut]

Thank you Raiycut wish it was easier ! I know it's the angst before that takes the enjoyment out of everything x

[Raiycut in reply to Andypandy30]

Go for it!

[Agora1]

Andypandy30, from one agoraphobic to another, know that I understand about safe zones. Although it's really safe no matter where we go because the thing making us feel unsafe is our own mind. Calm down your mind and it doesn't make any difference if you are here or on the moon.

Try not projecting and getting into the "what ifs", that only defeats you before you even left home.

Attending one performance on Thursday Nite is your only goal right now. Accomplish that one feat, pat yourself on the back and then continue on to one day at a time. Each performance will get better as you adjust to being in that environment.

You have an end seat ticket (I'm very familiar with that), start your deep breathing today. Use positivity instead of negativity with thoughts that may cross your mind. One step forward is all you need to take at a time. You can reach us for support anytime knowing we all understand.

You are not alone in this, if we could, we'd all go with you. I bet then you would be okay.

The strength is in you Andypandy as it was in me. I just had to find it and then the rest was easy. How wonderful for your daughter to be in her first big performance in a big theater. I'm sure you are very proud of her. We are here to support you, you've got one of the best forums around. You'll do it and you'll be okay. Breathe..x

[Andypandy30 in reply to Agora1]

Thank you so much agora you know how hard it is . I am so proud of her . I know what you are saying is true . Yes it's the constant worry before and trying to control the mind during . And I so wish you could all go with me at least you'd understand ❤️

[Andypandy30]

Worked myself up in to a right state now feeling unwell all day and don't think I can do it x