upset and no where to turn

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-25-2007
upset and no where to turn
6
Thu, 01-25-2007 - 10:35pm
I have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression and agoraphobia. I have just moved to a new city where I know no one. My husband works about 9 hrs a day and I am alone. I have been trying to find work at home until I start to see a new therapist in 2 weeks. I am not able to work because of my agoraphobia and at this point, I feel alone. My husband is very supportive but we are looking to move to another house in same city. And, he has been worried because at this point, I am unable to work. I have had no luck in finding work online, no luck finding a new house we can afford on his income, and I feel like at this point, I have hit rock bottom with no direction to turn. I feel numb and almost emotionless but have been crying my eyes out tonight. My husband is sleeping because he has to get up early and I do not want him to see me upset. He cries when I cry and I cannot bear to see him like that. So, I figured this was the best thing to do at this point. Can anyone understand how I feel or offer some light to my situation?
Lilypie
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Thu, 01-25-2007 - 11:39pm

Hi! Welcome to our caring community. I am sorry to hear about what is distressing you. Believe me, you are NOT alone. I have had panic disorder with agoraphobia for 36+ years. @ times I have been stuck @ home like you & even had a 3 year spell when I wasn't able to drive from fear.


Research tells us that 80% of people in your situation will see improvement in their lives with a combination of meds & cognitive behavioral therapy. If you aren't doing this, why aren't you? If it's a question of finances then call your local mental health office or public assistance to apply for health services. There are houses of worship & social service agencies that offer counseling on a free, low cost or an ability to pay(sliding fee

 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Sat, 01-27-2007 - 8:22pm

Hi, I'm glad you came by to share your story.

Sheri Ann

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-28-2004
Sun, 01-28-2007 - 11:33am

Sorry it took a few days to respond to your post...I haven't been on the board so much this week.

I know others here have had agoraphobia and it is really challenging to cope with, but it's so inspirng to read how they keep trying and each victory. I don't have agoraphobia, but have been diagnaosed with generalized anxiety disorder, so I know about feeling so overwhelmed and anxious that I can't concentrate or function and just sort of shut down and cry. I have suffered depression in the past and been incapacitated to where I couldn't accomplish my daily activities.

A few years ago, I moved to my husband's home state and especially the first year when I was pregnant and he was traveling for work, I was so lonely and felt so isolated. All I can say is that there are still good things in my life and that even when life has been at it's worst for me, that it passed and something, even a small thing like one "good" day of feeling happy or the mainstays: like my husband's support, get me through and make it worth it. I hope that you can hold onto the good stuff and find ways to cope with the rest.

There are great ladies on the board here, who have been a wonderful support for me. The coping tips and advice are good too. Please come post anytime and I hope you are able to find the new house and get settled.

Hugs,
Dee

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2000
Sun, 01-28-2007 - 6:38pm
SURE CAN,
Hey this board is here all night if you need to get something off your chest. I think its wonderful you have a great Husband. Also I know you will be able to get yourself under control. You seem to have experianced alot of changes in a short time. OF COURSE your anxiety level is up. N ow take a deep breath and just know your not alone. Hopefully you will find a good counselor or theripist who will be of some assistance. I know everything seems like a long process so hopefully if you stick with us we will help spend the time.
~~~~~~~A friend amy~~~~~: )
iVillage Member
Registered: 11-25-2005
Sun, 01-28-2007 - 7:06pm
Welcome!! I sure know how you feel!! I did not believe I would get
better I thought I had some awful illness mentally!! Once I found help
for panic disorder and agoraphobia I was on my way to feeling free!!!
I take medication and have hypnosis as therapy now and it is very very
helpful! When I was agoraphobic I could not do many things others take
for granted and wanted my life back so badly!! After starting the meds
I notice a slight improvement within 2 weeks---- within a month I was
starting to deal with my phobias! I am happy to say that about the only
thing I cannot yet do is fly! My life has improved so much I never could
have imagined!! I am less fearful socially a problem I did not realize
I even had--- BE KIND TO YOURSELF and put things on hold until you start
to feel better! YOU HAVE THE REST OF YOUR LIFE to find a home and job!!
I REALLY MEAN THIS!! Concentrate on getting better and you will!!
TAKE CARE and hope you can come to chat! Judy
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-16-2005
Sun, 01-28-2007 - 10:18pm

I see we both have anxiety, depression, and agoraphobia plus add a few and you have me. Things can and will get better. I have to agree with the other ladies try the small step method, without it i'ld still be in my home terrified to leave my property. I also take medication and go to a therapist though i find personally i get my best therapy right here on this board with these ladies. Be kind to yourself and definatly look through the coping tip folder. Best of luck and keep us informed.

Keitha