The other day, when I was forced to do something without my "safe person" I decided to try using a different thought process to get me through. I decided I needed to take my 5 year old out instead of being cooped up all day. So I told myself the anxiety is an unwelcome visitor that I need to protect my child from just like any other thing that I would protect her from. The anxiety gets in the way of things that I should be doing with her as a mother. I talked to the anxiety/panic with words like "bring it on -- you can't hurt me and you can't get in the way of enjoying time with my child!" I did this and it was really amazing how well it worked. I took her to breakfast at a local fast food place with a playground and I sat there among other people while she played. A big step for me.

Just thought I would share this and see what everyone thinks.

That's really good. I think that doing what you did will build up your confidence in yourself. Just goes to show how important self-talk is. The only way to change is to change your thinking. You are well on your way.