Stress Center Peer Support

Why does a trip to town and Walmart cause so much anxiety? Is it the 45 drive, the little one in tow, and just the thought of it all????

I personally hate stores like Wal-Mart. They seems so big and imposing and when you get inside the cavern, it's like a fog comes over you and your eyes glaze over and your breathing goes to heck so you hyperventilate and then feel dizzy and hang on to the cart for dear life. Plus, you get afraid that someone will see you and think that you are a freak or drunk. You, yourself, are worried that you are dying in Wal-mart. Stuff is piled up so high, you can't see anything that you came in for but lots of stuff that is beckoning for your attention that you don't really need. You finally can breathe deeply when you wheel out that door and your shoulders shudder with fright at what you just went thru and you thank your lucky stars you are done in there. Plus, you probably spent too much money, so then you feel guilty.

For me a trip to Wallyworld is stressful because there's too much to look at that I can't buy and want to. I have pretty much memorized what I need and where it's at. So I can walk in walk out pretty easily. The bathrooms are easily accessable, the front doors are easily available,and I feel safe in there for the most part. I do not go when it's their rush hour. I prefer to go early morn or late evening. When theres very few people around
and I make sure I have on something decent incase I run into someone I know haha. Nothing more embarrassing than seeing an old friend and you are wearing sweats and hair in a ponytail and no make-up...eeek :p
I wish Walmart had a child drop off daycare in the stores for parents so they could shop in peace without all the gimmie fits kids like to pull when they are in public. Haha. In your case maybe it's the long drive? I say move closer
Hey maybe that long trip is a good chance to play some of the lesson cd's like positive self talk, or sing your heart out to some cool jams on the radio?
It does get better and easier little by little
Take care
Jill~

Great thoughts in your posts. Thank you so much for your thoughts and feedback. It definitely makes me feel better.

I never liked big stores like Wal-Mart. Every time I walk into those places, the flourescent lights give me a headache. Everything is so bright, I have to squint. I prefer small stores that aren't so headache inducing.