Re: New here and coping with worsening agoraphobia.
Hello,
I went through a trauma 4 years ago. It led to me developing anxiety and agoraphobia. I worked hard on my agoraphobia and after about 18 months things improved. I got out alone and even faced all my appointments again I was so proud. Everything I avoided I could do again. Life was better. Then last November I became ill with an underactive thyroid and chronic fatigue. I was very poorly and struggling with alot of symptoms that would caused me to rest alot. I lost my confidence and fear of how ill I felt took over. I had a panic attack at a nurses appointment having yet again more blood taken and wham it was back with a vengeance.
Since that day getting out has been much harder but my illness has also played a huge roll. I now can't do appointments at all, my gp has visit my house if he's wanted to see me or do more tests. I can't go far alone with the children now. I hate going in shops again. I will go but feel anxious in there. I rarely go in shops without my husband though. Occasionally I do with just the children. It's all been a huge loss in confidence.
I have found this relapse tough. My gp says I have cfs and a thyroid issue which of course has made me stink at home which has will let anxiety and agoraphobia back in.
I've had some therapy recently to help me gain my confidence again. I'm finding it beneficial.
You aren't alone. Having 3 children I've found it so hard having to work at this again but I've done it before and I am again. Mine is due to a fear of being weak and ill when out the house. If it's a fear of panic attacks I found that a little easier to work on. Claire weekes audio cds are so encouraging.
I've made progress. I took my children on holiday this year again and we've had days out this summer. Now it's a case of on my days I don't feel as unwell challenging the shops, driving and eventually appointments. It is a challenge but try the audios and also a book called Dare is very good for agoraphobia. Claire weekes has a book specifically for agoraphobia.
I just wanted you to know you're not alone.
B x
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