I have the same problem. I'm always afraid of passing out due to lack of oxygen which in turn freaks me out to make me feel like I'm lacking more. Because of this, I've been afraid of doing the breathing exercises because I didn't want to 'mess up' and accidentally not breathe! But it's nice to read everyone's reassuring advices. And thanks for sharing. I usually have a hard time breathing because I'm afraid I'm inhaling bad things too, but recently, I read ( don't know if it's completely true for everyone but..) that even when you are in polluted areas it's good to take deeper breaths because your lung creates defense mechanisims and it's better than holding your breath. I also don't know the 'right' timing of swallowing when I breathe that I end up feeling like I'm choking. But I'm practicing my breathing everyday... little by little, so hopefully, eventually, I'll get it. Good luck.
I've had agoraphobia since the beginning of my anxiety disorder. I try to tell myself that it's ok, but I automatically feel bad when I start to panic or have anxiety and I don't want to make a 'scene'. I felt embarrassed for a long time and I am starting to accept it now by telling more people around me. I still have to go to places with my comfort person and I always need to know where the exit is or if there is anywhere I can escape/hide/ and be safe to. I'm still afraid to do things on my own because I'm afraid I may pass out and faint and nobody will be there to help me AND I'm afraid that people will see me faint. I've seen a few people faint infront of me in the past and I wasn't able to do anything for those people (although they were fine) and I sometimes wonder if this may be the reason of my fear. Does anyone else have agoraphobia?
Hi everyone, thanks for your replies. I'm very positive that everyone means well and that they don't know what other words to give me. But yes, I do feel a lot of pressure from it and defensive. And I wouldn't have thought of this until I received anxiety disorder too and have probably said it to others in the past when I was 'normal', myself. It is just very interesting to me and wondered if anyone else felt it too. Thanks again.
I was wondering how everyone gets around to run errands? I'm supported by my family and I don't buy much of anything anymore so I don't spend much while I have some savings still. I don't know what I'd do if that runs out... but I'm just trying to focus on what I can do now. Anybody know anyone who's gotten out of it?
Hi sunny, thanks for the reassurance. I wont give up... One more question: when we are breathing deeply, does the chest and belly rise or only the belly? I feel like I swallow a lot of air when I just raise my belly and this gets me really uncomfortable... and when I breathe and the chest and belly raises, it feels better than just the belly.
I was wondering too if you really have to do this? I don't think it's fair that you have to be put in a such situation where you have to answer such personal questions. That's torture and a violation of your right, isn't it?
My sister once got an excuse note from her therapist and was able to skip jury duty with it... is it possible your therapist can write you one?
Yeah, I was watching my dog and cat and they are both pro than me! I wish they can teach me. It's just so uncomfortable or I get so compulsive about it like I have to do it right.. that I end up freaking out... but I'll keep trying. Thanks again.
That's so great to hear that you have over came it. I guess it takes a lot of time and hard work but you prove to me it's possible. What I know for sure, is how much I took my ability so much for granted in the past... never did I have to make plans on what I can and can't buy that day. Walked in the store like nothing. But now it's something.
Hi Red, I don't like shopping too.. so I don't spend too much either.Thanks so much for your words, it made me feel so connected. I do see a lot of progress in myself too, but when I get down, it gets hard to see. But those days are getting less and I know that I am in a better place. I feel like I have 2 people inside always fighting.
Hi AMJ, I'm glad you are feeling better, it makes me feel better too. That is true, I really need this time to slow really really down too. I just don't know how to pick up again, but I guess it's not my time again.
Hi househippo, that is true. It is good to just say it even if they don't understand. I plan to do it more often.
I'm sorry. You know you best and yes, I did worry when I shouldn't have when I don't know the whole story. I just wish things can be easier sometimes. Good luck and please teach me something too. Thanks.
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