[kate Johnson]

I think my partner thinks I am just lazy but I'm starting to get the feelings of fighting with myself, even arguing to ''get out of the house'' even to go to the shop like a street away for ciggys, my mother is frustrated that I havent been over since xmas and friends ask why I havent been over to see em, there are appointments that I keep but need to make more and dont feel as I can as I may not be able to go, help?!

[MDDBPDPTSD]

I can't offer much in the way of a solution or coping skills as I have the same issues. I see my docs and my therapist. My family will come see me and sometimes I let them in. other times I do not.
I do want you to know that you are not the only one having this issue. It seems many of us do. We just aren't visible, as we stay home.
My therapist is trying to get me to take baby steps. Like commit to going on my porch once a day. Or walking to the mail box. Maybe that will help you to take baby steps. I can not do it, but maybe you can. You are strong. Above all, do not give up on yourself. Maybe you can't do it today, but you might be able to do it tomorrow. that is where I am now. I may be able to go to the store one day, but the next day I can not leave my house at all. Trying to be consistent is very hard for me, as everyday is different. But that also means that everyday is a new opportunity to make progress. Hope you feel better soon.

[Sprite~]

Don't forget to breathe. Deep from your belly and exhale slowly. Practise, practise, practise this! You'll get good at relaxation over time and it will become second nature to take that deeeeep breath and exhale slowly. (a sigh doesn't count) Practise while sitting on the chair, laying on the couch on your back with your hand guiding you on your belly. Practise while in the house and when you go out.

It took me a while before I would relax into it and not hyperventilate. I practised alot

Me three im not one for getting out a lot either, at least not in the last few months. I got pneumonia and that really knocked me off my feet, i keep using it as an excuse to do less and less though...i don't think ive been out in over two weeks. This doesn't mean im agoraphobic of course but im definately feeling a lack of energy/will to immerse myself more in the hustle and bustle of the outside world. So nothing much to offer in the way of wisdom but i do hope you manage to find a solution to this. Do you think somebody accompanying you more might help? Or limiting trips for now to places only you'd like to go? I don't think it helps that there are so many ways to help keep you indoors - i mean i get my shopping delivered, order clothes and crap online, even talking in here instead of meeting up with people more...*sigh*