Hi dayzee9, perhaps if you're this uncomfortable you should postpone the lunch until you've had a little more time to determine if you want to go. This seems to be causing a good deal of panic and you might wait to meet her for lunch when you are ready and have had time to think this through...are are sure you want to put yourself through this today?

Maybe if you reschedule the lunch for a time when you are prepared, it will go smoother. I'm a recluse due to PTSD and I understand how these "outtings" can cause severe panic attacks. If you're counting down the hours, this may not be a good thing for you to tackle this today. I would call her and be honest and give her just a little bit of insight as to what you are going through and tell her you would like to reschedule for when you can feel more comfortable. If she's worked the teen crisis line she will certainly understand.

I don't want to change your mind if this is something you want to do, but if you are truly this panicked it may be a good idea to just simply postpone until you are feeling less panicked. I'm so sorry you are feeling this right now. I know how unsettling it can be to venture out into the world under stressful situations. Sometimes it hard for me to venture out to go get milk. I know I wouldn't be strong enough right now to reunite a 20 year old relationship.

Would it be easier on you if you were to invite her over to your house for a bite to eat so you could talk to here there? You would be in the comfort of your own home that way. I think if you invited her over and told her what you were going through, she would suggest something different than lunch. Maybe a little window shopping together would be nice.

I'm so sorry you're going through this and I completely understand what you are going through. Hang in there and I hope your posting about it relieves some of the panic.

(((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((big hugz))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Missi