Stress Center Peer Support

Does anyone else get anxious at the mall?

Today I went to the mall. The mall is one of my anxiety triggers so I think I was already negatively anticipating going. On the drive there I was feeling anxious. John, my husband, dropped me off and I went in with my mom. I felt anxious right away and tried to calm myself down with positive thoughts, but the feeling persisted. I tried on pants in the fitting room and picked out two pairs. I was in the store for maybe 15 minutes before I told my mom that I needed to go outside. I know my mom wanted to do more shopping but I couldn't bring myself to go back in. I called John and he came and picked me up. I started crying on the way home because... well, I hate having anxiety!

But if I look at it differently, well it wasn't that big a deal. At least I went in, even though it was only for a short period of time. And earlier in the day I went and got my hair cut by myself and I didn't feel anxious. Baby steps, right?

I can't wait for the day when I don't fear going places!

Evie
sorry you didn't get to do all the things you hoped to do. The mall is a tricky one at times. Sometimes I Love it and sometimes I feel like a rat in a maze.But you are right.You did prety good in my book. I cannot tell you how proud I am . I have been avoiding the mall for months and a Hair cut? Lets just say I look like Cousin It or Rapunzel or something..haha
Big Kudos on that.

Yay for Evie..woohoo!!

Jilly~

Evie, you said it. Baby steps! 15 minutes at a time is great if that's what it takes. Just remember to use your breathing exercises and stay in the moment. Talk to yourself, it's just anxiety. You're not alone in this. You did great and remember one day, one step at a time.

@Jill: I also have a tricky relationship with the mall. I love to shop and sometimes I am okay at the mall, but other times, like yesterday I have a hard time. Thanks for the encouragement!

@Joe: Thanks for the kind words.

Evie,
I totally understand how you feel I avoid malls at all cost. It is very frustrating when you know it is just anxiety but you still feel weird. It is so nice to hear that other people have the same struggles. Thanks for your story.