Fear of Leaving the House
Also known as Agoraphobia – is a type of anxiety disorder. A person with agoraphobia is afraid to leave environments they know or consider to be safe.
What are the signs of Agoraphobia?
- Fast, pounding heart
- Sweating, trembling, shaking
- Breathing problems
- Feeling hot or cold
- Nausea or diarrhoea
- Chest pain
- Problems swallowing
- Dizziness or feeling faint
Your thoughts may say:
- You might not survive a panic attack.
- You’re not in control.
- You’ll look bad in front of others or that they’ll stare at you.
- You need to be with someone you trust when you go anywhere.
Ways to help Fear of leaving the house:
The right combination of medication and therapy can help manage agoraphobia and make living with it easier. A few other things to keep in mind:
- Get help when you need it. Family and friends can help you work through your fears, and a support group lets you connect with people who are going through the same things you are.
- Manage anxiety and stress. Talk with your therapist about ways to calm yourself and find relaxation techniques that work for you.
- Follow your doctor’s guidance. It’s really important to take medication as directed and keep your therapy appointments. Stay in touch with your health team so they can do their best for you.
Here are some more online resources to help with your fear, it won’t last forever, it is possible that you can overcome this!
