Agoraphobia

[Bookoffee]

I have a half an hour to perpare myself for a walk with my dog. I have been doing little steps to make it downstairs. My muscles and joints hurt. How do you get ready to go outside?

 

[Justmehere]

I make sure I have my keys, phone, dog poop bags, and take some slow deep breaths.

 

[KwanYingirl]

I have Annie pee at home then we walk so I don't have to be embarrassed if she goes on someone's property. Poop bags and my keys

 

[FindingMyself88]

I first try to do some breathing exercises with or without Bristol, then mentally prepare for EVERYTHING I have to do when I go out. I go over in my mind, each place I have to go, or what I have to do. For taking Bristol, I mentally map out the exact route we are going. If I have to go do something like go to the store or doctor I make a list in my mind of each step I have to do or everything I have to get. For instance, going to the store. I make the list of what I need and where it is located in the store, what I should get first, etc. I also HAVE to be early for any appointments or I completely stress out.

I hope you are able to take the walk and find it soothing! Dogs really are the best therapy!

 

[Bookoffee]

I do the same list and always need to be early.

Today I had to take steps to make it outside. First I stood in the doorway of the landing, then I brought the trash out onto the landing. When my wife got home I was able to walk downstairs and stand in my fear for a bit. We made it half way around the block.

Same days I can go to the beach, other days it takes my breath away just opening the door.

 

[FindingMyself88]

way to go on allowing yourself to stand with the fear for a bit! I am terrified of feeling emotions and my T is just asking me to "sit with them" for just a little each day. She promises working through it will be easier than dealing with the anxiety for the rest of my life!

Take it one day, one hour, one minute, and one step at a time! You have us here for support :hug:

 

[Bookoffee]

Thank you. Thinking of taking my dog to the campus I work on so she can run. I am giving myself 30 minutes to get ready.

 

[bhavana]

Totally. You have my support! Good for you to take that walk outside. I feel more healthy when I just get a breath of fresh air especially with a companion I can trust.

I do the same. I take deep breaths and I plan to face discomfort when I go out of the house. My reality is that I have a fear of people watching me and judging me. So in order to stop focusing on it, I take regular breaths while walking. Every third step is an exhale or an inhale. It sort of keeps the mind occupied and shows you how good it feels slowing down.

It's wonderful that you are also patient with yourself. A bit at a time is awesome. Just think that there's no need to rush. It's your time. It's your body.

If all the stuff comes rushing in again, don't force it. Go home and try again later. :).

 

[Bookoffee]

That is my fear as well. I am also scared my brother is going to attack me. He used to be very abusive towards me because of my sexuailty. I protect his hatred for me onto others.

 

[scout86]

And I would be terrified if you told me I was "trapped" in the house and couldn't go outside!

Funny how our minds work, isn't it?

 

[Bookoffee]

We went to the beach. My wife helped me every step of the way. She stood behind me holding my arm, letting me know I was safe and to watch the dog walk in fromt of us. Once we got through all the people, I was able to walk in the water and throw the ball around. My panic level was at a 5 and I sweat like crazy. I kept telling myself to feel everything around me and smell everything. What was going to be an half an hour trip, turned into more then an hour.

We took your advice @FindingMyself88 and mapped out an exit route out of the beach away from everyone.

Thank you

 

[Recovery4Me]

I love this site and the courage that I find from the hearts that post within it. Thank you, each and everyone of you that share so openly in order to offer the path to freedom. There is strength in our vulnerability as well as exposure of our mutual fears. I have learned much from all of you.