Hi guys, i'm Nick and suffered from severe agoraphobia for about 3 years and panic disorder for at least 5.
But right now im sitting on a sunny windswept beach a long way from my car. I still get the odd surge of panic, in fact I just got one a few minutes ago. In a huge open space all the familiar panicky thoughts and sensations swept over me. But it was only for a few seconds. I let it pass because I know from long experience that im still perfectly safe and able to get home on my own. It might not always feel great but as my therapist always says i can cope.
How did i get this far? For me it was meds, a great therapist and lots and lots of exposure. The key for me was that little bit of confidence that is gained from going outside, experiencing panic and letting it die down.
And now as a reward for all my efforts i have my freedom back. Ican walk into town when i feel like it, take walks on the beach and in forests with my little doggie friend.
So if you're struggling with agoraphobia and panic disorder: hang in there! It will get better! I too was convinced that I would never get over it, that I would be stuck in my house forever. But you will get out, you will get your life back, and you'll appreciate your freedom all the more for having overcome this.
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