Can going out to somewhere make someone be less sad even if they have the anxiety condition.

asiangal555

Regular Member

Joined : Jun 2015

Posts : 295

Posted 4/21/2018 11:12 PM (GMT 0)

I have the anxiety condition for awhile already. I am taking medication for it though it only helps a little ya. The person I go to for the anxiety condition says if I go out to somewhere then I won't be as sad though. I don't really get how that works since when I go out I get more anxiety around other people. Then I get more sad. Can someone give me some advice on this. Thanks.

Scaredy Cat

Elite Member

Joined : Sep 2006

Posts : 28868

Posted 4/22/2018 3:01 AM (GMT 0)

AG,

I think what your therapist wants is for to slowly increase your time away from home and being isolated. When we stay home alone and sheltered from anxious situations...the anxiety and fearful patterns can actually be reinforced.

Going out for short/simple outings at first will help you to gain confidence to no longer feel as much need to avoid going to places like the store, or even to social outings.

Taking little baby steps towards doing those things which makes us unconfortable is called immersion therapy, and can be a great tool.

Doing just a small trip out...one where you can easily just walk away from the situationif you become overwhelmed would be a good first step. Maybe just a quick trip to the library to start?

Then, you can add more to your list of places to go as you feel ready and able.

Wishing you the best...you can do this!

S.C.

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