Stress Center Peer Support

Hello everyone in Panic-ville. I am 44 years old and I suffer with Agoraphobia with MASIVE PANIC ATTACKS. I am a devout Christian and love the Lord Jesus Christ. I have suffered with this disorder since I was in my early 20's. I just medicated myself with Xanax and when that ran out, I used other "calm me down" medications. No I am on nothing and learing how to handle my own brain. I know I cause these panic episodes and for the FIRST time, I drove out of my "SAFE PLACE" and was a little anxious but was able to keep telling myself, there is no safe place, there is no safe place, I am my own safe place, I can't run from myself. I am happy to say that I did it. It was just a baby step for other's, but for me I DID IT. Actually God and I did it because I was gripping the steering wheel so hard I had white nuckles. Just wanted everyone to know that if I of all people can do it, so can you. I have planned a trip next Wednesday to drive 5 1/2 hours with my 5 year old. Going to visit my Sister that just had a baby. Anyway, it will be a big drive for me so if anyone has any supporting ideas, I would love to hear them.

Wow! Way to go! You are truly an inspiration. Keep up the positivity and good for you for sharing it with all of here in panic-ville, as you wrote!

Congratulations.....I too will one day soon jump in joy and give thanks to God and all those involved with helping me along the way to healing and truly enjoying life.

You will be fine as good energy and God's presence will be with you on your trip.

I am truly happy for you!

Maria

Swat,
Awesome!!! Good for you. It only gets better!
That's how we start to really get control of our thoughts and reactions -baby steps.
Hey, for me that was a HUGE step too!!! I was also agoraphobic and had many, daily, severe panic attacks. Take pride in all the steps you accomplish!!!! You'll get there. Peace of mind and peace in life.
Have a wonderful trip and bring your tapes with you to listen to on the way. Now I also like to bring some Christian, inspirational tapes along for long drives. I happen to like Joel Osteen - full of hope and positives and comfort.
How about some sing along children's tapes too to sing with your son to pass the time and give you a nice comfort zone.
God bless and hugs to you. Have fun!

Cindy,
Thank you so much for those encouraging words. Perfect idea about Joel Osteen. I love him too. I really like listening to Steven Curtis Chapman and Toby Mac. My son loves singing to those kiddy songs as well. Your an inspiration. Thank you for the advice.

Tanya

Thanks. That truly means alot to me.

Maria

You certainly will. Listen, if I can do it, you can to. Thanks for those encouraging words.

swat,
with Him all things are possible.HEdeleivered me from all meds while i was in brazil on a mission trip and we will depart tommorrow night for the U.S.know that you can do this.l i did it in 2004 when i met my wife for the 2nd time .you have to read m story to get the whole picture. know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers as you go on your own journey. God Bless you my brother..
don

SWAT, I am so happy for you. You must be very, very proud of yourself. Celebrate this success. Carry this proud moment with you wherever you go. Keep up the fantastic work.

LisaLisa

Thank you so much for those encouraging words. It's so nice to have other Christians praying for you.