Agoraphobia

[ginabean]

I’ve been dealing with agoraphobia for the last 2 years and I’m wondering if anyone else has experienced it and how they were able to move past it

[BeKind28-]

Hello

I have ended up been agoraphobic 20 years now

I did not notice it when it first started but wished I had and got help as now it is such a struggle

The advice at 2 years I would have given myself had I known what I know now is little steps get to the front gate if you have one daily and then as you feel comfortable a little further and so on have someone with you if it helps

Also if there is any therapists that can help or Counselling then get intouch with them

Set little goals each day and I really hope you can overcome this x

[Matchaloves in reply to BeKind28-]

I’m slowly getting out of the state of mind of being afraid to go shopping. I was so afraid of going to checkout even self check. There were times I couldn’t even stay in the store and check out.

I felt anxious every time. I recognized this scared and shaky feeling and didn’t fight it. I worked through with breathing and telling myself I could do this no one is going to hurt me. I also chewed gum and this helped deplete the adrenaline I was feeling. These negative thoughts are a lie and it’s not true. You are better than this and will get through it.

I started shopping at smaller stores that were familiar and I felt a feeling of relief that I was able to go in the store shop around and actually checkout with a live person. It was a great feeling and I keep the accomplished feeling and remember how I didn’t let my anxiety run away with negative thoughts. This has helped me get out of the house and run errands. I still get anxious but keep repeating to myself I could do this I’m going to buy the things I need whatever it takes. I will not run out and be defeated by anxiety.

[BeKind28- in reply to Matchaloves]

x

[Agora1 in reply to BeKind28-]

xx

[BeKind28- in reply to Agora1]

x

[designguy]

You might check out the DARE Anxiety book and youtube videos to learn what anxiety really is and how best to constructively deal with it. You also might find medication helpful for you at least temporarily. Another good book is "At last a life and beyond" by Paul David, it also helped me.

[Hidden]

I'm a recovered agoraphobic. I was agoraphobic for 7 months and just left my home for the first time on Thursday. I basically took baby steps via exposure. It's not easy but sooooo worth it.

I suggest finding a good therapist and psychiatrist to start with.

You may need meds to get through it but that's ok.

You'll get there if you work for it! I'm proof.

Hug

[Agora1 in reply to Hidden]

xx

[Hidden in reply to Agora1]

😊

[Matchaloves in reply to Hidden]

I try to go out everyday. I’m selective of stores I go into. Like if it’s too crowded I go elsewhere. I’m really trying to be strong and get through these feelings. It’s been going on for about 3-4 months. I thought it was from stress and would go away but it’s really getting to me. I’m going to find a good therapist and hope I could get back out there Big hug to you

[Matchaloves]

I will definitely check out these books. I have tried natural remedies, cut out caffeine but this anxiety it taking over.

I’m going to find a therapist it’s been hard dealing with these feelings and not telling anyone. My kids noticed a difference when we’re out and about. I’m usually the one telling them let’s go out and have fun.

These days I just don’t want to interact with anyone because I’m afraid of turning red and embarrassed. I really want to get through this not only for me but for them.