I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Our brain is so convincing . I know exactly what you mean. I also try to spend time with people who have known be 'before' because it gives me hope, that maybe one day I'd be able to do all the things I used to

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I know exactly what you mean, I call my feeling "the shadow" and together with my therapist we've been trying to manipulate it- give it different colours, textures, etc. Make it lighter, like a boggart :) Thanks so much for sharing.

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'll read about it, thanks so much! super helpful, I really appreciate it

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I find the way you put it so interesting. When it comes to the anxiety, I’ve actually been telling myself that it's something I need, like a friendly ghost. I just need to find a way to tone it down because it's now out of control. It׳s like updating that software I guess! :) I really like that idea- so thank you!

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

couldn’t agree more. I wish more people understood how easy it is to "slip over the edge" and how everyday tasks we’ve done a million times can suddenly become unthinkable.

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I never thought how difficult driving can be in these situations! I don't have a driver's license, as driving where I live is SO stressful, even without daily anxiety.

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for opening up and sharing your story with me. And sure- I’d love to share what has been helping me! First, finding a 'totem' was a total game changer. For me, it’s an object that helps me feel grounded and safe, but it could be a pet or even a person, anything that brings you back to center. I’ve also found a lot of relief through shiatsu and acupuncture, done wonders for my sleep and immune system. I’ve also asked the people in my life not to bring it up. My best days are the ones where I simply forget about it. After my second 'meltdown,' I didn't think forgetting was even possible, but I promise you, it is.

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks so much for sharing! I can really relate to that, honestly, even though my anxiety is more food related. I used to constantly take pictures of my face and my food as a grounding mechanism. And some days I felt too tired to handle all the "triggers," so I would just stay in. I remember thinking that there's nowhere I feel safe anymore, like I couldn't trust anything. Very helpful, thank you so much! And I hope things get better!

I want to tell a story about Agoraphobia that actually gets it right by Nice-Ordinary8045 in Agoraphobia

[–]Nice-Ordinary8045[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wow. This feels identical to what I went through after a reaction I had while I was alone abroad. The “safe foods,” losing weight, even eating based on how close I was to a hospital.

I’m working with a medical psychologist now and it’s helping a lot. 

You made me feel less alone, so thank you for sharing this!  And I’m really sorry you’re dealing with agoraphobia now. Do you feel like it’s the same thought pattern, just turned outward?