Replies to 'Fears, Phobias and Anxiety Disorders'

Quote From: mmast55

Hi Tannie....You're right on target with believing that's there more to your fear of driving, than just driving....Also, it is indeed ALL up to you (don't ya just hate that!).  So, you've already begun to solve your problem.  Really.  There's alot of people out there that haven't figured out what you have already figured out!  You're on the right path!  Plus, ya got God on your side!  (He's a very good person to have on your team I hear!)  Now, don't get me wrong, I LOVE Oprah and Dr. Phil, ( I think they should run for office.)  but I wouldn't sit around wasting preciouse time waiting for them to come to your rescue.  All they can do is give you the tools to solve your problems.  Like you said, "It's all up to you".  There are ALOT of books out there that can help you.  Could you get your husband or someone to take you to a bookstore?  It does indeed sound like you have some other issues.  You are obviously dealing with alot.  Molestation, alcoholic father.  I don't have a clue about how being molested messes ya up.  Just from hearing shows on Oprah.  It sounds like it can really be another whole issue.  I'm far from being an expert, but in general, I think all of the "tragedies" that happen to us when we are young, manifest or create basically the same problems in all of us.  For example:  low self-esteem, people-pleasing, perfectionism, negative thinking, over-eating, over-drinking, over-working, over-shopping and the list goes on and on.  Like Oprah says,  all of these are just a sympton that there is something else going on.  And you have already figured that out.  I've been involved with therapy, 12 step groups for quite awhile.  They really do help if you're willing to do the work.  I've found that having support is extremely important.  Someone to bounce things off of.  I am far from being "cured".  But I keep plugging away.  Today in fact, I'm starting to read a book about anxieties.  It was recommended by a therapist.  It seems to touch on every negative, self-defeating behavior I have.  It is a workbook also.  The author suggests activities at the end of every chapter.  Activities that will challenge this self-defeating behavior.  He suggest that you study each chapter at least 1 week.  I'm actually kinda excited to begin.  The name of the book is:ANXIETY, PHOBIAS, & PANIC. A Step-by-Step Program for Regaining Control of Your Life.  The author is:  Reneau Z. Peurifoy, M.A., M.F.C.C.  It's published by Warner Books.  It's not on the bookshelves.  I had to have the bookstore order it for me.  I'm sure there are many others out there, but I have had this book for a while (procrastination, another issue) and decided to read it.  I hope I have been of some help.  You can learn to cope with all  of your issues.  It can be hard, painful and a pain in the but, but not doing anything is more painful.  Take care, Mary