Agoraphobia - what a drag

[AvalonMyst]

I'm agoraphobic and will go into a panic when having to leave the house. Pretty much I only leave the house to go to doctor visits. Luckily, I am now able to actually sit outside and read, but I guess that's because no1 can see me.

How to overcome agoraphobia? any tips? For the most part I have the attitude "it is what it is" and really don't try to overcome it, not sure that's so healthy though.

[Helloraspberries1]

Hi AvalonMyst, I'm sorry that your suffering with this.

I do know how you feel when your in the house all the time, looking at four walls etc. Going through with it on a daily basis thinking there's no hope to overcome is the side efforts
agoraphobia can make you feel and do.

You said just now you go out and sit outside and read. Before did you also have a fear of people watching you or is that still a problem? Again that was a really big achievement! You already made the first step and you should be proud of yourself.

What tips to suggest? Keep making small steps. Write down what your goal is, how your gonna achieve it and when you going to complete it by. This will hopefully give you the attitude you need to overcome this in time.

Keep going. Your doing well.

[AvalonMyst]

yea the worry about people watching me is still a big factor, sadly. I guess that's all part of my paranoia.

Thank you for your kind words, they are much appreciated

[defeated]

I think only one person can help....



Just sayin <3 lol

Love you girly, you will overcome this someday. I truly believe that.

[ticktock]

Big hugs. I think you're right that the attitude of "it is what it is" is your safe zone. Safe zones are really needed when panic attacks hit from what I've read and experienced. Taking small steps, like reading outside (good for you!!) is helpful. I think that every time you gain the strength to force yourself to do something uncomfortable, you make progress. Appreciate it. Be proud of your achievements. And keep on keeping on.
On a personal note, thank you so much for being the kind and generous person you are. You've made a difference in not just mine, but many other lives through the depression chat room. You always seem to know when a laugh or distraction is needed and you always manage to deliver. <3

[CitM]

I understand agoraphobia. There are some days I feel like I cannot even leave 'the safety of my room,' which ironically is probably not safe at all if I want to live life well.

A lot of people have mental health pets. These are usually in the form of a dog or a very tolerant and outdoor loving cat. However, don't try to take one on the bus unless you want to face your blind or something. Mental health dogs are not recognized by some bus drivers by some transportation companies, like Pace.

Here is a possible alternative though. A lot of people wear 'lucky' items. Now there is NO scientific proof that these help prevent anything, however, they DO help with confidence in that 8 times out of 10 nothing bad happens to anyone when they leave their home.

Another thing you can do is bring an item that has a special memory for you. One of the things I do, when it gets really bad, other than be late to class, is take a painted rock my youngest daughter gave me for mothers day and I put it in my hand (which happens to be just palm sized) and it's like I'm holding her hand and I don't feel so alone. This does help a lot.

[defeated]

I understand agoraphobia. There are some days I feel like I cannot even leave 'the safety of my room,' which ironically is probably not safe at all if I want to live life well.

A lot of people have mental health pets. These are usually in the form of a dog or a very tolerant and outdoor loving cat. However, don't try to take one on the bus unless you want to face your blind or something. Mental health dogs are not recognized by some bus drivers by some transportation companies, like Pace.

Here is a possible alternative though. A lot of people wear 'lucky' items. Now there is NO scientific proof that these help prevent anything, however, they DO help with confidence in that 8 times out of 10 nothing bad happens to anyone when they leave their home.

Another thing you can do is bring an item that has a special memory for you. One of the things I do, when it gets really bad, other than be late to class, is take a painted rock my youngest daughter gave me for mothers day and I put it in my hand (which happens to be just palm sized) and it's like I'm holding her hand and I don't feel so alone. This does help a lot.

I really think the lucky charm idea is great. It makes sense that something special would provide comfort and maybe bring down the anxiety a bit. Great suggestion CITM

[Helloraspberries1]

@Avalon Myst sorry to hear that you face that reality.

Only you and it is only you who can give you that first start in life to set those challenges in place which you are currently doing.

There's nothing more you can do.

[viuuiuvy]

I understand agoraphobia. There are some days I feel like I cannot even leave 'the safety of my room,' which ironically is probably not safe at all if I want to live life well.

A lot of people have mental health pets. These are usually in the form of a dog or a very tolerant and outdoor loving cat. However, don't try to take one on the bus unless you want to face your blind or something. Mental health dogs are not recognized by some bus drivers by some transportation companies, like Pace.

Here is a possible alternative though. A lot of people wear 'lucky' items. Now there is NO scientific proof that these help prevent anything, however, they DO help with confidence in that 8 times out of 10 nothing bad happens to anyone when they leave their home.

Another thing you can do is bring an item that has a special memory for you. One of the things I do, when it gets really bad, other than be late to class, is take a painted rock my youngest daughter gave me for mothers day and I put it in my hand (which happens to be just palm sized) and it's like I'm holding her hand and I don't feel so alone. This does help a lot.

Sometimes when going shopping I will pick up a necklace or bracelet that resembles somewhat of an earthy vibe. When leaving and going out in public, I like to let people know that I'm down to earth & like the natural side of life (that way when getting sort of scared I'm letting people know I have my boundaries).

[Prycejosh1987]

I'm agoraphobic and will go into a panic when having to leave the house. Pretty much I only leave the house to go to doctor visits. Luckily, I am now able to actually sit outside and read, but I guess that's because no1 can see me.

How to overcome agoraphobia? any tips? For the most part I have the attitude "it is what it is" and really don't try to overcome it, not sure that's so healthy though.

There is nothing wrong with socialising with other people. I am sure you have a family. You see the doctor so that is a start. Build on that.