Haven't been anywhere for 5 weeks and counting...

[shellyleppard]

The last time I went anywhere was in December last year. I can get as far as my garden gate (front) or patio ( back).
I'm scared to go any further.
I'm 56 and feel bloody silly but I just can't get out

Sorry to hear- it is it agoraphobia? I wonder if the GP could help. Or any online resources? Don't be hard on yourself. But you don't need to suffer either.

I’m the same, 52, but I’m having a massive fibromyalgia flair, the fatigue is crippling and has been particularly bad since last summer. Are you agoraphobic ? I know a couple of folks that have struggled off and on since the lockdowns. I know if I’ve been stuck in too long, it gets harder to leave the house.

@paddleboardingmum thank you for your kind words. I'm going to phone the doctor, its getting daft now

@Thedownwardspiralpath i think I'm getting that way. I rang the doctors this morning. Telephone appointment on the 18th. Will ring again tomorrow. Hope you feel better soon x 💗

Well done getting an appointment OP that is a really good step forwards. Good luck with your recovery you can do this.

@paddleboardingmum thank you 💐

@Thedownwardspiralpath @paddleboardingmum just an update. I spoke to my doctor today. Anti anxiety and anti depressants for a couple of weeks. Phone review on the 18th. Thank you for your kind words and support.... it's really helped 🙏💐❤️

That sounds like an excellent start OP. Do you have any hobbies or social things you have enjoyed doing in the past? I found that maybe 18 months after the COVID restrictions has stopped, I became very anxious and had stopped doing all on my normal things- I never went back after they reopened, I had got frozen. I went on meds, and once I started going to things again I felt much better. I make sure I keep going now, it really helps me stay on an even keel

Has this come on suddenly, or have you always struggled with this? I’ve read menopause can trigger anxiety.

Could you break it down into small steps. Day 1 step outside your gate then when you are comfortable with that walk a bit further and gradually build up that way?

This is great news @shellyleppard congratulations on having the courage to take that step and best of luck to you as you recover.