Suffering from Agoraphobia....Do u know someone who suffers from that as well?

I can say I had something very similar, which started after my daughter was born. I also have something similar to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), which I think is what caused the panic attacks. Having to worry about having to use the bathroom or if I would make it to where we were going would cause the panic and anxiety. We lived in the country so going to town became a chore. Taking walks, drives, going grocery shopping, etc., became a chore. First thing to find when we went to a store was the bathroom. I seemed to calm down some what if I knew where the bathrooms were. Then when the kids got older and into activities, I would force myself to go, and of course had to know where the bathrooms were. Over time things got a bit easier, then when the kids needed to go to the college for help for their studies I would force myself to take them and I would stay there and read magazines. Then the next year or so I would force myself to drive the rest of the way to town while they were in class and then come back to pick them up. I think what really helped me out is I became friends with a lady that I had told about my conditions. She asked me to go to lunch and I said what if this should happen. She said who cares, sit on the outside of the bench. And from then on we would get together with out kids and go places. It was nice to have someone who didn't judge me for health conditions that I had. I have found since I have not been working and things have gotten tight with the economy that I am home more often and the scared feelings and anxiety are starting to come back. I couldn't even go visit my Mom with out having what I called and attack, I think because my mom could be critical or judgemental. As far as long trips went, we would figure out where the bathrooms would be, gas stations, etc., which helped. I started years back if I felt the panic setting in I would close my eyes and keep them closed till we got where we were going. This really helped. As I could not see how far along in our trip we were. If you take this step by step, I think you can talk yourself out of your attacks. It took me several years to feel somewhat comfortable, and then I started doing volunteer work and got out of the house more, and then I got myself a job. I hope that you can over come this problem. If you ever need someone to talk to about this, just give me a holler. My sister said once to me, that she had thought that it was beginning to be a phobia with me, and I totally agree. Good luck to you.

I have heard of it. In fact I'm living it--to an extent. I've had this ever since I was a child but it got worse with age and after graduating high school. I was almost kidnapped on the street by a man while walking to school--more than once by the same guy. I never told my mom til much later, out of fear of some kind. I didn't even want to go out to get a job after high school, I didn't want to drive anywhere, etc. I always had to be with a family member to go anywhere. I can never go anywhere alone, even now, it can be really dibilitating. I have had the same doctor for years and it's amazing how he never seems to catch on to it, all he does is reprimand on how I should socialize more. I have never gotten any kind of compassion over the fact I have had it and am sure my family hasn't even heard of it so I never bring it up. They just think I'm some wierd person who just has a fear of everything. :(

My mother was like this. She suffered so bad for many yrs. but I am sure a lot of it was due to the fact that she was so severely abused in her past she was afraid to be around someone new for fear of rejection. I have heard with panic attacks and many times depression that things like this can happen, and the Best thing to do usually is find things that you enjoy, and try getting out and doing them. If it is with your husband go enjoy and try and learn how to relax. Even with me sometimes there are days I wish I could do more hibernating, especially when I am not feeling well, and things seem to not be going my way. But due to the Dream of really wanting my Own Business this is something that I try not to bog me down too often as well.

Pleasant day Robswife2006, I never knew that there is a sickness like that. Before when somebody loves to stay at home, he or she will just be tag as a homebuddy. But know, it is a type of sickness that needs healing and therapy. I do not know someone who suffers that type of illness. But, what you have written will surely help mylotters to identify if they knew somebody who suffers in that sickness. As what you have written are the signs and symptoms that can be observed on the person who is having that agoraphobia. Your main topic discussion is an informative one.

I've heard of that before. That must be terrible to have that kind of anxiety! I have anxiety problems also, but not quite the same way as yours. My husband has never had anxiety so it is hard for him to understand me and what I go through, but he is trying too. I hope your therapist helps you to get better from this problem real soon! Hang in there you can do it!

Hello Robswife... I've never heard about that kind of illnesses before, I am so sorry for you and hope you'll be free from that odd but serious Agoraphobia. I can't answer your question but you give me a new knowledge. I suggest you to keep positif thinking that you are safe, no need to afraid of something that sometimes disturb you. When you are with your husband, you have to encourage yourself and believe that it is just a simple thing to pass just like yesterday. Keep spirit :)