[Titilia]

My T gave me this to do. I'm trying to do things that I avoid and then I rate the levels of stress/anxiety pre/post/peak numerically. I have cptsd, and this is the first time that I'm doing any 'exercises'. I did not make it out the front door the first time that I tried it. I had a panick attack, got numb, and then passed out in my recliner. For a couple of days after this I experienced confusion, loss of time, and was not functioning well. Prior to the exercise I had been more functional, in that I was not getting confused and overwhelmed, and I was interacting with others... It feels like I regressed from attempting to do this exercise. That happened early last week. This week I made my list, and waited for my daughter to get off of school, and then I went shopping with her. I went to a low traffic grocery store, and I was able to get a cartfull of groceries and leave with my 8 year old by my side. I definitely felt the fear and anxiety, and I think that I disassociated because I was woozy and I forget some things on my list, but I made it out. I felt so inadequate the whole time, and I was scared too, but I think having her with me helped in some way. Is it okay to do it this way, even though I was instructed to go alone and not leave until I got everything on my list? I will bring this up in Therapy but I can only go twice a month, and thought I might get feedback in the meantime.

[JadeAmethyst]

Hey Titlilia you made your outing. I would say that is quite an affirmation on willingness!
Your body will help you stay focused as time goes by. Breathing will help also, take it easy on yourself, give yourself the kindness your deserve.

Continued success on your path.

Jade

[*Laurie*]

You've accomplished a lot! Give yourself a hug. I think having your daughter with you helped, yes.

[pegasus]

Big hugs to you Titilia! You've made a fantastic start and you are facing the triggers, I think too much overload will put you off so taking someone with you is fine. Remember to reward yourself somehow for doing what you have achieved each time. Also remember you will have good and bad days and any progress is good progress!