I had brain surgery in 2005. It was hard to leave the house a long time. Gradually, I could drive and one day standing in line at the DMV had a major panic attack. It continued for a long time and some other life situations added to it.

My family tried to "help" by using the technique of "flooding". It didn't work.

I read a lot of books and tried many things...today I am able to run my errands by pacing myself when out in public.

I have to go slow, and pace myself, by myself, because others just don't understand the stuff inside us. I think they generally mean well (I Hope), but bottom line for me it caused more anxiety to have them pushing me. (tough love)

The anxiety, and panic attacks have decreased a lot, and it takes time and patience and pacing for me. My life at this moment is ok.

In situations that I know will trigger me, I take extra care of myself by setting a limit on exposure that way I control how much, when, who, where I go.

I hope this helps in some way.

Jade