Overcoming panic-related Agoraphobia?

Sorry this is long, but can anyone relate? And how did you overcome this?

Hi all! I've come here many times to try to find guidance on dealing with my anxiety and panic. However, I don't think I've ever mentioned my agoraphobia. My life is full of restrictions. I don't like going more than 5-10 minutes from my house (I'm 32 and live with my mom because I hate being alone), haven't left my city in almost 9 years, avoid social situations, avoid almost everything. I feel like all I do is stay at my house or go to work. There's so much I'm missing out on, and I'm at a loss as to what to do anymore. I know I need to push myself more, but I often do not because at least when I avoid things I don't get consumed with panic. When I do go places, I often rely on Xanax just to get through the outing. I'm so tired of living this way - I feel like my life is passing by me and I've lost control of it.

Does anyone have any experience with this, or advice on how to break this cycle? I just want to be the carefree person I once was. Now I'm just isolating myself because I find it so hard to go out and just do normal things.

Thank you, in advance, for any input! I'll never lose hope that one day I'll overcome this.

Hey Liz,

Sorry to hear about all of this. I think, from what you've described, I can relate. At my worst I didn't leave the house much for six months or so, other than for therapy sessions, and even then I had to take Ativan.

It was a combination of therapy, medication, meditation, and some yoga that got me to the point I'm at now. Medication was used short-term. And meditation was the single most important part of it all.

It is/was a slow process, but don't lose hope! Feeling better is doable.

Best of luck,
TICHWA

Hi there!

I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with this.

I had a similar experience a few years back. It lasted about 5 months. I also am afraid of new meds so it was difficult.

Basically I found a new therapist, did a lot of relaxing meditation and my doctor had me on Xanax basically around the clock. A lot of people will frown on this, but I woke up and took my xanax before even getting out of bed and took it regularly throughout the day. I only needed to do this for a few months and then we dialed things back a little and I'm able to take it less or as needed now. I can honestly say that without the Xanax, I may not have overcome things the way that I did.

Hi Liz! I'm on a similar boat as you and the other posters. The thing I've heard over and over and read on panic sites is to feel the fear. Find a good therapist that will allow you to cope with your panic with or with out medication but to push you to prove to yourself that the panic itself is nothing to fear. I still have some ways to go as well. A good therapist along with the right meds to help you as you start is what I feel is important. Wishing you well! Another thing is even if you are having a good day do not let the anxiety dictate if it's a bad day. The road to healing is not linear and you'll have some set backs but keep moving forward. Keep us updated! You'll get there one day at a time.