Years ago I underwent extensive therapy for panic with agoraphobia. It consumed ever little ounce of independence that I ever had. If I did leave the house it was for dr. appointments only. I remember it being so difficult. I had such a great fear that I would panic and have no where to go. I wouldn't even leave the house unless my husband was with me. He was such a great support.
Finally, with help from my therapist and my husband we were able to do some exposure work. Little by little I made little steps towards being able to go places and do things. We would take late night shopping trips, then we would go a little earlier, until I could handle going out during the day. But what really helped me was church. I have such a great support from the members of the church, and they helped as well.
So let's fast forward to this time. My first major panic attack happened about a month ago, I was out with family for dinner at a restaurant. It had been years since I had a major attack, and I thought immediately that something was physically wrong with me. So much that I called for an ambulance. Once all was determined that there was nothing physically wrong with me, and that it was muscle pain, and anxiety, it didn't seem to help me feel all that much better.
So now, it's a month later. I am in therapy again, and I feel like the meds are beginning to help. I am learning as much as I can about panic and anxiety, and trying to implement all that I learn in order to live my life. But this time, I am not afraid to go out. The only discouraging thing is that at this point it is recommended that I do not drive until I get everything under control better.
I know in time I will be back on my feet, I have the faith that I will.
Thanks for listening to me, it feels so liberating to get some of my story out!
