Replies to 'Fears, Phobias and Anxiety Disorders'

Hi,   

I just noticed your posting and it would appear that you have all the symptoms of Panic disorder and are starting to develop Agoraphobia (a fear of leaving the safety of the home). These disorders are anxiety disorders.  My son suffered from generalized anxiety disorder for over 40 years. It is an overwhelming fear of everything.  He also suffered from agoraphobia as well.  The good news is that he has overcome his anxiety and has moved on with his life.  Anxiety disorders are learned behaviors, and anything learned can be unlearned. For more info. look at the postings I have under my user name: pinetree.  I am setting up a on-line support group for people suffering from anxiety and mental illness. I presently have three in the group and am limiting it to ten.  There is no cost.   

If interested e-mail me at: rowdens@shaw.ca .  You can cure yourself with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It will teach you how to replace your negative false perceptions with true rational perception.  My son says that if he could beat this illness, anyone can if they are will to put in the effort required.  Sorry, there is no magic pill or quick fix, but this illness can  be beaten.  

Pat  User name: pinetree  

Hello! I'm just writing to say that I think I know how you feel. I've had panic attacks since i was 8, now im almost 18. When I was little I never slept over at anyones house either and even though i was never physically sick i always felt like i was going to. I missed out on alot of things because of my anxiety. I was put on medication when i was 8 and the panic attacks decreased significantly, but whenever i would try to get off the medication they would come back. Finally like two years ago I got off the medication. It was really hard, but i did it. I learned that like usually when you're panicking, it's not about something that is actually harmful to you. You have to look at whats actually there, and whats actually happening. Even though your body is throwing you for a loop you have to be there mentally. You have to help yourself overcome your fears.  

I read ur post, and I have exactly the same thing as you. whenever someone mentioned the word sleepover, i couldn't breathe, became sweaty, and heard my heart in my ears. I was embarrassed, and lied to my friends when they invited me to sleepovers, always saying I was busy. Schol trips were exactly the same, I was always making up excuses. I have not always been like this, it only started about 2 years ago. But i think it is agoraphobia, and im 1 step closer to solving my niggly little problem which has been ruining everything.

Megan (14)