ocd and agoraphobia

[ilikecatsandmorecats]

Does anyone have experience with this and how did you combat the depression and fear that comes from agoraphobia?

[Sallyskins]

I have agoraphobia alongside the OCD, too! I try to keep the agoraphobia at bay by going out frequently, if only to the local shops. I don't overdo it, as if I go out too often and too far I do struggle.

I've found that a short walk somewhere fairly quiet and full of trees or gardens is helpful. Try to avoid town centres if they're at their busiest and same with public transport. I've replaced my bus trip into the town centre with a walk down a quiet tree-lined road - it takes longer to get into town but is much pleasanter.

I have plenty more where this came from - I've been battling OCD and agoraphobia for many years.

[10-12-1953]

Had agoraphobia bad when I first got out of college. Finally forced myself to go out. Got a job and that made me go out. That was almost 50 years ago and I still have a little agoraphobia. Try to keep busy, playing golf, going to the gym and working. Still gets tough sometimes. Keep at it and eventually the anxiety will subside over time. Going out is a firm of exposure response therapy.

[Potterydreams]

to be honest I haven’t seeked much help to combat this. But living in an apartment with my dog, having needing to take her down to go to the toilet outside is sometimes the only way I can get myself to go outside. Also the need to take her out for a walk knowing that She needs to go outside and explore. It really helps. Also I have a part time job, the best thing that I found was having to work within walking distance from home. It gives me less anxiety having to know I don’t need to take public transport and I can walk straight back home after I finish my shift.