Are you telling me seriously....

that people go out and don't worry? Like it's a huge deal for me to go to like...the grocery store, or WalMart. Do people seriously walk in those places without giving it a second thought? Do they really just pick up the phone and make a phone call without feeling panicky? They can meet somebody out running errands and have a conversation, not an emotional crisis?

I can't imagine living like that. Must make it so much easier to do....everything.

I think it's normal to get anxiety when going into Wal-Mart.

But as far as everything else, I totally understand what you mean. When I had panic disorder, I couldn't believe people could just eat at restaurants with ease. It was so hard for me! Now I can do some of those small things pretty well-- but I never take them for granted because I remember when I couldn't-- and I often feel like I'm hanging by a thread... like at any moment it could be cut and I could go back to that again. It's scary stuff. I still worry about stuff all the time. Obsessions and stuff. Wonder what it would be like to have a clear mind. To just relax.

xina,
funny, I've been wondering the same thing...regarding the big things when I see commercials I kindof know they are sureal, but I hear about families taking vacations places, climbing on an airplane etc...

but the little things just cripple me too, like grocery shoppping and deciding what shoes to buy. it's really painful! what's the deal with that?

I can NOT make telephones calls right now unless it is to an automated teller or to a friend. I have been dealing with some government people lately for childcare and I was so panicked my deadline laspsed then I had to get all this paperwork together and made my fiance take it because I couldn't do it. I walk into Costco, thinking I am going to be okay then the fear/anxiety grips me and I walk right back out. I can't even enjoy a coffee shop anymore (that I love) because I think people are staring at me and judging me. Uggh, this is so frustrating. I am not scared to go outside, only certain situations. My big one believe it or not.......gas stations. That is a CRISIS to me. If I have to go get gas I panic about 2 blocks away because I don't know if everyone is going to be parked the "right way" Meaning if they have a right hand tank they are on one side, and a left hand tank down the other. Seems small and stupid to some but my gosh, my world crashes if they are all parked for right handed tanks (Mine is left handed) I don't talk to new people for fear what I am saying is going to be taken wrong and I will be looked at strangely. I am comfy with who I have in my life and stick with that for now. Good luck!!!!