[KarriesBaby]

i have a big problem i dont leave my house because i have anxiety very bad, i do go out of the house i got for walks, go to neighbors, the problem is if i get more than 5 mins from my house i freak out. I walked to the dollar store in may did great i was so proud of myself but i havent done anything since then. I live with my girlfriend and she told me if i dont go out shopping with her tomorrow she is breaking up with me, she just cant take it anymore and i dont blame her. I have no idea what im gonna do if i dont go and she throws me out, ill b on the streets alone. I know deep in my heart i can do this its just learning how to just do it and stick with it. I have no idea where to start. I dont go to therapy because i dont leave the house. If anyone has any idea how to help me id greatly appreciate it...thank you

[Leed]

Can you do this? Ask yourself: "What's the worst that can happen?" And then REALLY think about it.

Usually when you think about it, the answer to that question is NOTHING is going to happen!! The only thing that will happen is I will be OKAY.

The worst that could happen is that the world could end -- but we KNOW that's not going to happen, right? So WHY WORRY??? You will be okay!
Nothing at ALL is going to happen to you if you go to the store with her!!!

I used to panic very badly too. I mean BADLY. But my husband taught me the above. And after I practiced it for a day, I basically stopped panicking!!

BELIEVE ME -- Not one darn thing is going to happen when you go. Nothing. You WILL be fine. You will NOT panic. I PROMISE you. Just don't THINK about it. Go like a normal person, and ENJOY YOURSELF.

I want you to let me know how it went too, ok? Will you do that for me? God bless and take care -- and HAVE FUN! Hugs, Lee

[missbelle]

I am sure you have discussed this with her......have you seen a therapist or Doctor? Sounds like some meds might be helpful but you have to follow thru and do that. Put a call in to a clinic etc or social service agency and explain what is happening...that you want help but have a terrible time leaving the house. They may have some suggestions for you.

Anxiety is terrible and for a long time I had severe panic attacks. With good meds I have a little anxiety but nothing like before. I am able to function completely and have for years. There is help for you out there.

As for going shopping, is there a lucky piece or something that means something to you that you can stick in your pocket to get you thru shopping? It sounds silly, but sometimes that really helps! Try to do some deep breathing while you are out with girlfriend. Realize also that anxiety is just magnified fear, and its only an emotion. It can not kill us. It can make us uncomfortable, but it will not hurt us in any way!!!Sometimes with practice you can just walk thru it.....consider it a tunnel and at the end is the light and each step gets you closer to the opening and farther away from the anxiety....

Take care of yourself!!

[hamster-bamster]

If you can time it right, try having sex right before you leave on your shopping trip. Sex relieves anxiety.

[polar_bear1]

My story is simular. Can go 5 min from my house then panic.
Just saw my pdoc and he put it this way: You have to go somewhere, walk into it and if it kills you...well then that´s just that! But if it means something to you (like meeting family/being with girlfriend) then dont think, just do it. It wont kill you, even if it will feels that way... Just do it, dont overthink coz that increases anxiety.
yes and one more thing: just take one step at a time!

About your girlfriend threatining to brake up with you- well that´s a slap in the face. Is she going to threaten you everytime you have to go somewhere?? Is that love? Is she worth the hassle?

Take care, and let us know how it will go.