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anxiety on the stairs

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Posted 5/27/2011 4:05 PM (GMT 0)
Good day all. My first post in this forum.

For over ten years I've felt very anxious when climbing stairs, being on balconies, and generally "looking down" from any high place. Even in an airplane I get really up tight when the air gets bumpy. Going up and down stairs, I have to put both hands on the walls or railings, and carefully take one step at a time. Even on an escalator, I have to hold on to both sides.

I recently had some surgery, and my doctor gave me 12 Xanax 0.5mg to keep calm prior to the hospital trip.

The day after I got home, I realized I'd lost my anxiety of high places when I took the Xanax. I actually walked up and down my cellar stairs without holding on to the rail, and didnt' even think about it.

Anyone have a similar experience? I don't really want to go on a daily medication for this. But constantly feeling I'm going to fall unless I hold on with both hands and almost crawl up/down stairs is *really* a problem. Try walking with your boss and get to a stairway. He goes right down; I grab the rail and slowly go down, hugging the wall all the way.

Thanks.
Tom in CT
Posted 5/27/2011 5:15 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Tom and welcome to tht A/P forum;) That is really interesting about the Xanax! One pill and the the fear vanished just like that! That could practically be a testimonial for the drug, Lol!

I have trouble with high places, and sometimes stairs. We moved into a two story house recently so it's been a forced recovery somewhat...but I still have nervousness with open sided, or unfamiliar steep stairs. Escalators are, let's just face it, freaky. It is unatural to get on something moving like that, so I consider caution on them totally normal;)

I wouldn't take anything on a regular basis unless your fear is really hampering your everyday routine. If you are miserable, or not able to do the things that you need and/or want to do, then you may want to consider it, but weigh your options.

Xanax can be habit forming, and this could be something that you could conquer with counselling/exposure therapy. Run your own 'risk analysis' and decide what is best for you.

As far as worrying about what other people think, or whether you are able to keep up with them on the stairs...it doesn't matter. Explain that you like to take it slow. Maybe making a quip like 'Just bringing up the rear.' will be enough to break any tension. Life isn't a race and I'm sure no one even gives it much thought. If the situation was reversed you wouldn't think anything of it if the other person was taking a bit longer to make it down the stairs.

I hope that this helps you to feel better about this. You certainly are not alone! I'm sure you will be hearing from others who feel the same way as we do. Post anytime here with us and take care;)

Scaredy Cat
Posted 5/28/2011 2:40 AM (GMT 0)
Scaredy - thanks very much! You know, I tried for years to get over the "fear of falling" issue. Hypnosis, CBT, relaxation, meditation. Nothing worked until I had the "Xanax" surprise.

I agree - I don't want to get into a dependency. But it was interesting that a day's worth (3 tablets) right before my hospital trip eliminated the fear/problem without me even thinking about it.

Hope others with a similar "fear of falling" issue share their experiences.

Thanks.
Tom in CT
Posted 5/28/2011 7:33 PM (GMT 0)
Hello Tom !  I am with you on the fear of heights and stairs.  As I get older I find it is not always easy to jump on an escalator or go down a steep flight of stairs especially when people are jostling me. redface


The most frequently used treatment for phobias is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy called systematic desensitization or exposure therapy. This treatment is very effective. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 75% of people are able to overcome their phobias through cognitive-behavioral therapy.

I will admit if I have arms full I may take the elavator when out in public.

My philosphy re "what other people think" - I will never see them again so phooey on them.  Take care and remember you are not alone with this fear.

Kindly,

Kitt

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