Public

[oliviaaa1]

All my panic attacks happen at stores or in public. I have to mentally prepare myself every time I go somewhere. Idk what it is about stores pacifically, maybe it’s the lights or the big open area making me feel anxious for whatever reason.

[valachia-t]

It seems like you have agoraphobia, I am in the same situation, church, at the movies, standing in lines, large crowds, etc. talk to your doctor about it, there is medication for that, I take some. I hope this helps.

[oliviaaa1 in reply to valachia-t]

Thank you 🖤

[Agora1]

Hi oliviaaa1, it is everything you've said about what prompts anxiety in stores or

in public places. The ceilings being so high, the openness, the flickering of florescent

lighting, sounds and most of all too much mind stimulation from all that's around you.

Once getting into that state of mind, the "what ifs" come along especially if you've

experienced a panic attack before in that environment. Your mind tends to associate

the place as giving you anxiety (a certain store, a certain mall etc)

But it's not the place but the thought in your mind. What finally was the turning point

for me after 5 years of Agoraphobia, was to learn and practice diaphragmatic breathing.

That can have a lot of power over your thoughts. It can calm your mind/body sensations

within moments. The more you practice this, the easier it gets to have control no matter

where you are. xx

[oliviaaa1 in reply to Agora1]

Thank you 🖤