Agoraphobic

SilverLining · Post by **SilverLining** » Tue Dec 14, 2010 2:22 am

Charles,

What you say is so true. I have always wanted to feel like I was in control. Even before I became a Christian and I would go to parties and drink, I wouldn't allow myself to get drunk just because I had to be in control of myself at all times. I really need to step back and realize I am not in control and God will take care of me. Renewing my mind as the word says. I've let too much junk in over the years. Thanks for sharing - it's helped me feel not so alone in this battle. Tammy

Hope77 · Post by **Hope77** » Thu Dec 16, 2010 6:20 am

SilverLining,

You are not alone. I feel that my anxiety right now is all about control. I have to learn to under-react and give up my control.

Paisleegreen · Post by **Paisleegreen** » Thu Dec 16, 2010 8:24 am

Hi Silverlining and Charles--I am feeling the same way. I need to have control as well. So having this feeling has caused a lot of problems with family life. This is where most of my arguments or issues happen w/ my family members.

It is all about control, I can see that more than ever. That's why I would get upset with my sons for throwing things away! I don't like changes either and I don't like discomfort. But they have all happened to me, of which I had no control. I guess that's why I'm such a mess right now.

I've also have been very faithful. I believe in prayer and faith in my Lord, Jesus Christ and he has helped me to weather the storms. I'm not always liking the storms that have come my way. And I guess this is a new storm to humble me right now and be prayerful.

I guess I've had it pretty good in some areas, healthwise very good, so I guess I get pretty bent out of shape when I'm not the way I use to be. I don't like growing old, but it is going to happen, I don't like sore muscles. Which keeps me from doing some of the fun things I use to do.

But then last night I was thinking of Lucinda saying, "What If...I can build up my body and muscles to do what I use to do?" What If...I made the effort, just like Tina Martin said, to go walking whether it is raining or snowing. Or drive to the health club which is right next to my pharmacy and use their treadmill or swimming pool?"

I started to feel better at the thought that I just might get better!

Imagine that!

So I guess I should use my control issues to my advantage, and control my actions to make me feel better and happier.

Paislee

P.S.-- Last night I made myself go to the store and buy some new Christmas Cards that were discounted. While there I bought some marshmallows and rice krispies to make Rice Krispy Treats. I haven't made them for at least 3 years that I can think of unless longer.

I went when around 4:00PM hoping to beat the after 5:00PM crowd. but this store was busy! It was overwhelming to me...just as some of you say. I just did not want to be there because the store had changed, more people were there and I was overwhelmed with what to buy.

I didn't plan to buy Christmas Presents, but the store is calling out at me...BUY, BUY, BUY!

I only bought me what I went there for and some discounted warm snow gloves for myself. I knew I'm going to need some warm gloves this winter in case I actually play in the snow or get out and walk outside or I am "trapped"

in my vehicle or something.

I was so happy to get home after that experience. But proud of myself that I did so well. How are you guys doing?

Hope77 · Post by **Hope77** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 7:27 am

Good job Paisleegreen on going to the store. I have been the same lately. Just trying day by day to get better from this being stuck in the house.

hanow825 · Post by **hanow825** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 10:02 am

Stay strong Charles, you will get there. Keep in mind this is the craziest time of the year to be in the stores, so any success you have in getting out there will be multiplied.

Pauly J · Post by **Pauly J** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 10:39 am

Hi, this is my first time here. Just wanted to say that i had problems with agoraphobia due to anxiety and panic. It was temporary and i was able to overcome it rather quickly by just facing all of the fears. I feared driving, the dark, strange looking people, supermarkets, showering, being alone, and even being at home was sometimes frightening. It is not always easy to face your fears, however it must be done in order to break the habit of the fear! Hope it helps some!

SilverLining · Post by **SilverLining** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 1:04 pm

Hi Pauly,

Thanks for the words of encouragement and reminding us that it is possible to come out from agoraphobia. I personally am doing better but still have my good days and bad. I know that what you say about facing our fears is so true. That is the crossroads that I am at.

Thanks again! BTW: the showering part was interesting as I struggle with that one too. Helps to know I'm not the only one who has had that struggle. Tammy

Paisleegreen · Post by **Paisleegreen** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 1:58 pm

Silverlining and Pauly--I have showering as scary for me right now. I don't know if it because of the misty air that fogs the mirror if I don't use the noisy exhaust fan. My Dr explained that to my husband when I told him I didn't like to shower in our newly all white tiled bathroom shower/tub.

I don't know if it is because of the "heat" or my "weak" at the knees feeling from anxiety. I've never had a problem with showers before. I had the same problem while visiting my sister and using a very closed in shower room.

SilverLining · Post by **SilverLining** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 3:04 pm

Hey Paislee, My shower fear is pretty much based on the "what if" thinking. What if I get heart palpitations or get dizzy? What if I need help and there I am stark naked!!

That would be a scene my kids would never forget.

I am getting better - I guess it would help if the shower was downstairs - don't ask me why - closer to the door in case I decide to run out in the snow half naked?! :p

Oh the joys of panic disorder!!

Peace everyone. Tammy

Paisleegreen · Post by **Paisleegreen** » Mon Dec 20, 2010 3:22 pm

Hi Tammy--I get the same fear or "what if" thinking as well. I take my cell phone in with me and even keep the door unlocked just so that someone would find me

That really means I'm scared! Yikes! I also listen to Lucinda's CDs while in the tub.

This is so different from the way I use to be. I make sure the heater vent is either open or closed depending on the heat or moisture. It is just a different bathroom feel with all white tiles from tub to ceiling.

I need to break it up somehow to feel more calm in it. I use to have a framed watercolor print of a lighthouse that was inspirational above the tub's faucett. Now that it is a tiled shower I don't have anything to look at except lots and lots of the same tile.

I'll have to get some cling ons things that I can change around a bit.

Paislee