Pride

One of the biggest battles that an agoraphobic will have to face is that they are ashamed of their condition. We become very embarrassed and belittled because we have to ask for help with so many things, and we are unable to always go where we want.

Some agoraphobics in the lead up to becoming housebound become very good liars. We do not tell people that we don't do this, or why we cant go somewhere because we have a panic disorder...we make excuses, evading and trying to reveal our true problem.

But that doesn't always help in our recovery, for the more people that understand, the easier our travels will be.. Letting people know can be of wonderful help. Instead of invading situations for fear of embarrassment, we can instead say something to them like "well....I'll try to come to that party, but I may not be able to stay long because my anxiety may too much for me.." or " I will try and have lunch with you, but I may not stay long"

Doing this takes the pressure off us. We are not under a self imposed duty to perform "normally". When we know that we have set the tone, and can leave whenever we want, then the odds are that we wont need or want to. Its simple. The pressure and the onus is off. Once that pressure is taken from us, of course we will suffer less anxiety, can relax more and thus, are less likely to panic.

Telling a few kind friends, family, workmates, and neighbours of your disorder, can help you to cope better in
situations.

Share. It really can make all the difference.

Agoraphobia will very likely be the hardest and toughest battle that you will face in your lifetime....respect that, and make ensure that others do too. The daily slog, the constant battle with your confidence and retraining your
thought processes are really difficult, time consuming and exhausting. You face a difficult challenge every day in your recovery. Have pride in that. Do not be ashamed of your agoraphobia, be proud of how well you cope and how determined and focused you are on recovery.

You have nothing to be ashamed of. Stay focused on your goals, keep on practising and be proud.

You are fighting a tough battle :)).....and you'll win.

Becki