Trapped- but not letting it win

Hi guys, those of you who know me are aware that i suffer from agoraphobia as well as OCD on top of the panic disorder. I work full time and my comfort zone is about 3 hours north, south, east, west from my home. any further and i freak out. (especially if there are crowds!)

Anyway a close friend just rang very last minute to invite me to a birthday afternoon tea tomorrow- super short notice and i hate having to drive somewhere i havent been before. It also can take me hours to pick an outfit- thats where my compulsion kicks in and i can become quite obsessive. This is also largely due to my Zoloft related weight gain & the self loathing i have for my body.

I thought about not going as i am still unwell with a pretty harsh sinus infection & bronchitis-  but then decided that if i dont go, im letting my irrational fears win.

Ive been going out socially more and more- parties, dinners, weddings- you name it, i make myself go, as i am an extrovert and many people are not even aware i have an issue being away from my hometown.

So the point is, im going tomorrow, and i will enjoy myself. Im 29 and refuse to live as a recluse (which is tempting- cos of the Fibro etc, i spend alot of time in bed) but to hell with it. My friend will only be turning 30 once.

Lets challenge our fears, and take back some control of our lives!

Much love to you all,

Maz XX

Yes I say go for it too. Just take your Xanax with you just in case, but I think you will do fine. We tend to freak ourselves out alot, but when we push thru it, we usually end up having a good time. Have fun!!

I'm proud of you! It takes alot of courage to step outside our comfort zones!

Thankyou all, i had a lovely time. I have to force myself to take back control of my life, even if its as simple as a birthday lunch with friends. I have 4 weddings before december and a couple of rock concerts in huge stadiums, so im working my way there step by step.

Much positive love to you all,

Maz XX

Maz, the absolute best way of beating agoraphobia is going to places that make u feel uncomfortable. Congrats to you! You should be proud of yourself. Also, I have a question. You are always suffering from sinus problems/lung issues. Have doctors tested you for any allergies? Just a thought. I hate the thought of u suffering like this over and over. You must be tired. Hang in there, Maz!