I'm on Lesson 10. When I started the program I was pretty much able to go places, except when my IBS was acting up. Sometimes I'd have panic attacks, but could usually work through them. I thought the program would help me get over the panic attacks. Instead they are worse. At first I was better. I went to the mall 3 week-ends in a row, which is something I hadn't done in years. But then things changed. I know the program says somewhere that you may get worse before you get better. I haven't been to church in 3 weeks now. It's almost time to go & I'm beginning to panic. How do I get over this hump?

Hi MRT. I too am agoraphobic. I agree with Grateful - baby steps! I think of alot of people think after they've been through the tapes, anxiety magically disappears - not so! We are on the recovery road our entire lives, living one day, one hour, one minute at a time. I've had the program for a couple of years, and still refer to the tapes and review the workbook whenever I need encouragement. Keep working with the program - we are all here to support and encourage you!

Thanks for the replies. Grateful, I never seem to be able to do that. I have responsibilities. I can't just drive to the store & not make my purchases. My husband can't do it all. I know what you are saying, though. I need to go to the store now & I was thinking that I can get my check started so it will save time when I check out.

I made it to church & did fine! That's a victory.

Last night I started the workbook portion of Lesson 10 and I really think it is going to help me. I don't have the kind of thoughts Lucinda talks about, but I do obsess about going places.

Blonde, I had already decided that this program is something that I'm going to use (at least off & on) from here on.

I think I should have come on-line earlier. I appreciate the help & the helpful attitude of all here. I'm in another forum (support group for IBS) where there is a lot of bickering. This is a breath of fresh air!

I also am afraid of going places. My anxiety was better in the begining of the program and like you said it got worse. I get real depressed about it a times, but I try to use positive self talk and at the same time I wonder how long will this process take? I'm working so hard and when I don't feel positive results it's very upseting. I am now doing the program again with the help of a coach. I want to finish a day and say that the day felt really good and I am proud of me and proud of what I did today! Won't it be nice when we get there!