My new problem is a terror of the stairs. I live on the 2nd floor and there's a steep long staircase to get downstairs.

One of my better neighbors did me the tremendous kindness and, at my request, went in front of me down the stairs, so that I wasn't panicked by seeing the steps ahead of me. I doubt he will want to do that tomorrow too. I'll have to try the best I can.

Anyway, I managed to go out, with my neighbor's help. But then I came back. I had to climb the steps, which used to be harder for me to deal with. But I started up the stairs, with increasing fear and panic, and at the last step I tripped somehow and fell up onto the landing. Straight down on my barely functioning knees.

Another nice neighbor tried to help me get up but I just couldn't. So she helped me with the doors while I slid on my bottom, through them. So, once I was in my apartment, I tried and finally successfully got myself back up standing.

So I'm freaking out because I am so scared of the staircase since maybe the last week of April.

I did have this panic/phobia once before. It was after my hospital inpatient stay I had in 2013. I decided not to worry about it. And after a few weeks, it went away. Unfortunately I dont have that kind of time now, not at least while I keep having to go to appointments.

I'm not sure how to cure myself. Even the specific thoughts I have to self talk didnt work. I just keep saying I'm over it but then my legs lock at the sight of the stairs.