I have agoraphobia and have decided that I want to go away for my march break. Just the thought has my anxiety very high but I want to do it. I have not traveled at all in the past year and have been feeling very hopeless and decided I am going to do it.. any suggestions to make this trip a little more comfortable and how I should deal with my panic attacks for the drive and and while I'm there? It's six hours fromh home so it's not like I can just get in the car and go home...
2007-03-11 09:03:04 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Health ➔ Mental Health
I think the entrapped feeling of not being able to go home is what gets most people, actually. Hell, even people without agoraphobia can be very bothered by this. If, and I'm talking absolute worst case scenario, if it came to it, you could go home. You could have a shorter trip, whatever. I think if you keep that in mind, you should enjoy yourself, because you won't feel so trapped.
Also if you can take things with to make where you're staying a little more like home, it would definately help.
2007-03-11 09:09:57 · answer #1 · answered by starofiniquity 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Talk to your doctor and get treatment for the panic attacks. They are generally treated with an antidepressant, such as Lexapro, Prozac or Celexa. Your medical doctor may also be able to prescibe something in case you have a panic attack. You need to see a counselor and learn how to deal with this before you get to the point of isolation all together. Seek counseling or read a book on dealing with panic attacks. Panic Free is a good book. You will probably need a medication to help at first.
2007-03-11 17:44:30 · answer #2 · answered by Shanna h 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I too have some of these issues. I have been able to travel and do almost everything since I got on meds.
I take Lexapro. It starts working quickly and helps a lot. I also have ativan and xanax as needed for when I really flip out.
All family physicians are able to prescribe these things.
I used to feel the way you do before I was on meds. I didn't travel for 5+ years.
I just back from vacation yesterday...flying and all (something I never would have done pre-med)
2007-03-11 18:32:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What a wonderful step, and how very brave! I'm afraid I don't have too many tips, except maybe build up to it. You haven't said how bad you are, but if you've not been out of the house in the past year then perhaps your should try and get out. Build it up gradually. Do something you're uncomfortable with (eg if you can't leave the house then go and have a cup of tea on the door step) and build on it.
If it's a traveling thing, then go on small journeys - 5 mins at a first and then build up. I find listening to my personal stereo/MP3 player is a good way of calming myself down. It isolates me from what's going on around me. Put on cheery/relaxing music (which ever calms you).
2007-03-11 17:03:17 · answer #4 · answered by Mango M 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes there is two thing i suggest. The first one is abviously meds and or professional help.]
The second is you have to watch a movie called "the secret" before you leave for vacation. Its a must see and I am sure it will help you!
God Bless~~
2007-03-11 16:56:53 · answer #5 · answered by Elias 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It might be better if you took someone else with you, then if you do have one of your attacks you have help at hand. Just a thought.
2007-03-11 16:53:47 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋