anxiety about going out of house

hi, i'm older guy, aka Rich.

I've developed a fear of going out. I used to have trouble with this when i was depressed, but now it's a whole different thing. before it was feeling that i didn't care about anything. now, as i start imagining going out i worry about what route i would take if i go to do an errand, and worry about traffic being heavy and getting in an accident.

i have also been staying home a lot. i used to attend a meeting for bipolar support, and a 12-step meeting. but now i don't. i just seem to love staying home, although today, with the fear of driving, i'm disappointed in myself and worry that my life is going to be very boring if i don't go out more.

would appreciate feedback.

love, rich

no, mike, in fact, in my many years of driving i have only been involved in minor dust-ups, maybe 3 total.

yes, i realize i am fortunate.

yes i am too. i have also noticed that once i get behind the wheel, some of my fear/anxiety dissipates.

oh i have that fear too. i distrust most car repair places, usually afraid they are going to rip me off. but as far as breakdown, i decided with this car i was going to have routine maintenance and not just wait for something to go wrong.

Hello Rich:

You may have Agoraphobia or you may be Housebound. It can happen with depression or Anxiety. Sometimes when people are usually tired and/or in pain, it may happen then also. The symptoms are somewhat ridiculous sometimes, however. There are supposedly only 3% of the U.S. with this condition. I find that hard to believe. There are most likely way more. Just that the patients don't mention this problem to their Doctors.

If you have a disability or are a Senior, you can look on the net in your area to have a volunteer walk with you to a park or to visit someone nearby, etc. There are also volunteer drivers which you would pay a small amount to go a certain distance. Usually, cheaper than a Taxi, to pick up groceries or buy clothing, go to medical appointments, play cards at a Senior's center, etc. I know that it is easier with your own vehicle but if you don't want to be caught up in traffic( I don't blame you), it would be another resource.

If you have a Therapist, Psychiatrist, Psychologist or Counselor, they should be able to help you with this info also or to get someone else to find it for you, if you cannot find the company or government agency, yourself.

I'm only suggesting them, if you want them. You could also ask family or friends, of course.

Hi Rich.

I also have anxiety about leaving the house but I push myself everyday to get out and about usually for a walk because I can put my headphones in and zone out to music whilst out walking which seems to help with the anxiety.

I can also relate re driving and I get intrusive thoughts whilst driving which cause me anxiety I also hate driving at night so I completely avoid doing that were possible.

Hibee