What to do with anxiety of going to store though.

I have the anxiety condition for awhile ya. I think I get anxiety when I go to the store since doing things there make me anxious. I would not remember what I was going to buy or would not like the feeling of what other people would think of what I am buying though. I am just sad since I don't like having this condition. Does anyone have advice on how to have less anxiety when going to the store. Any advice would be nice. Thanks.

AG,

Besides the coping skills that should be practiced daily for anxiety management... (I posted the link to our self help resources for you in your other thread as requested!)

...another trick that may seem strange...but can be helpful, is to wear your sunglasses into the store.

I know it might feel funny at first...but if you think about it, a lot of people wear their sunglasses indoors, for whatever reason...

...and no one will notice or care.

This insulates you from a certain amount of stimulus light bright lights (fluorescent lights can trigger panic) and help you to feel guarded from outside triggers.

Also, practice your positive reassuring mantras. Keep repeating calming phrases to yourself such as: 'I am okay, no one is noticing me or what I am buying.' or...'I can handle this task. I will stay calm, remember my items, and have no anxiety while I am here.'

You can do this. Once you have had a successful time at the store...draw upon that memory to keep you relaxed for future trips!

S.C.

I too hate going to our local grocery stores. They are always sooo busy. I also have a 2 yr old toddler and the combination of it all is just so stressful to me. It’s a trigger and I order groceries online and have them delivered. With everything going on it was one thing I could take off my plate if you will.

However, I know that feeds into my anxiety. So I make trips here and there in the early morning or late at night and on days that are less busy. I’ll even go in for a few things rather than a whole weeks worth.

Baby steps are the key here and positive mantras. I have a prep talk with myself before hand and also make a list so I’m not having to think about what I went in for. Don’t expect the next trip to be great, it’s going to take time and its ok to experience anxiety. It’s part of what we unfortunately have.

Blessings!

AG,

You are welcome...

...and you can do this!

Peace and progress!

S.C.

Going with someone, as you said already, is a good way.

Do you visit some more interesting places? i hope that doesn't sound bad, as once I didn't have any other places to visit besides, probably, store.
If you visit them (other places) regularly, I suppose the store might become less significant. Usually, when you go somewhere, very far, 500km for example, other shorter trips seem much easier. But, once everything is back to normal, usual things appear 'bigger' again. So another way, is exercise in visiting some good place, or/and somebody there to talk with - on a regular basis.

Another way is of course meds with a better effect.
Switching stores helps a bit but only a bit.

Are you ok with headphones and music? I wouldn't do it, but everyone's different and might work for you...

Another one, doing same thing for a long time can weaken mind so it may be possible to find some quiet place and gather strength to finish the task.

I put my list on "notes" on my phone. They go on randomly as I think of what I need. Then, my mind stays a bit distracted as I'm checking off what I've got and scan the list for anything I forgot.

I also go to the smaller stores, like a locally owned grocery store, rather than Walmart or Kroger which are so much more crowded. I feel more blocked in from the bigger stores as well because their shelves are so high and they have such narrow aisles.

A girl-
I’m so sorry you are going through this!
Have you tried going with a friend to a different store soon after the store opens in the morning?
The first 3-4 times just go to the store, look in a favorite isle that has no people in it then turn around and leave. If you can do this a few times with a friend that knows what your going through and maybe a
Neighbor could watch your child. If not, make these very quick visits with your child. You can slowly build up time just being in the store to about 10-15 minutes.
When you get that down, buy 1 item, milk, bread, eggs, cereal, something your child needs to eat. Have your cash ready in your pocket to pay in line.
This process can continue as long as you need to until you feel more comfortable. You get to decide.

A funny fact for you:
I come from a family of 8 kids. My mother never learned to drive Both parents worked 2-3 jobs for the
Family. My dad always did the food shopping with coupons. 😊

Wishing you peace and strength. You can do this, just take your time.
Has your md given you Klonapin or Ativan ?