This is called exposure therapy. It's incredibly difficult to open up publicly about mental health struggles, let alone to family or those you're close with. Leo, if you help one person, then it is worth it. I can't be in a vehicle without driving, period. May the Lord bless you and your family.
Bless you! I have overcome so much in my life but even my doctor has no answers for my agoraphobia. My Healthcare says they offer counseling but they claim there isn't anything available for this kind of problem. The therapist told me to search on UA-cam and other internet sources for coping suggestions! I'm on Medicare so it's not like I have lots of alternatives for medical care 😂. To be truthful, during covid I was practically stress and anxiety free; never had to make excuses as to why I never went any where or didn't socialize...it was this introvert's dream! Lol! I no longer have any family, they have all passed as have most of my friends. I am 70 now and I actually enjoy being alone, there's a difference between being alone and being lonely. I am not lonely except I do miss my Nick who was my soul mate/twin flame and passed 5 years ago. I just can't handle being around people any more. As I stated in a post in another video I really am a burn out after a 30 year career as a psych nurse. Don't get me wrong, I love people, it just drains all my energy when I'm around others. I prefer doing my artwork and crafts and revel in the fact that finally I have the time to do what I love. I've tried the desensitization method, but it doesn't last. When Nick was still here he took me everywhere and I felt safe with him. As long as he was there I could do anything. I just wish I could get over the anxiety of leaving my apartment. Sorry this is so long...I really appreciate your talking about this. Much love to you and your Judi✌️🫶😊 Edit: local news just announced it official "stress awareness day"! I just laughed and laughed...😂
If you're not lonely or missing anything... nothing wrong with not wanting to socialize or be out... especially if your happy. And as long as you're not the nurse Ratchet type.lolol (Sorry 🙃 I couldn't resist) I'm sorry for your loss of Nick. I suffer from agoraphobia and a few others so I understand those issues. Have you tried some of the online apps for grocery shopping etc? Some even deliver. Wish I'd known about them sooner myself. I've even seen postings of people who will run your errands for you, including grocery shopping or take you to doctor appts etc, if something like that would help. Be kind to yourself, each other and your pets. 💝
@notme2day still chuckling over the nurse ratchett reference 🤣 Yes, I do all my shopping online and get my stuff delivered, have been for the past few years now. Ima gamer, so I do have some puter savvy, used to even make skins for my Sims back in the day! Not a hacker or programmer tho. My transportation to medical appts is provided for so that's not an issue but you're so kind to care enough to ask. Bless you! I always believed in treating my patients with dignity and respect foremost. I specialized in geriatrics, specifically dementia and alzheimers. My patients were like family to me. Sorry to say I'm not seeing that same level of care in the medical profession today...but to be fair, all are overworked and understaffed, and burnout is a very real thing. Thank you for your kind concern, I hope you find your peace as well...I find creative hobbies a great form of therapy personally.
Thank you again. Incredibly brave. My son is really taking you in. He is 20 now. When he was 16 his best friend was killed by his own dad's mental illness. Then covid happened on his birthday, the world shut down and he did at home school. He graduated h.s. early, from home. But is fearful of the world. I've tried to get him to do therapy from home via text, chat, or zoom. He wants it but is terrified. Watching you tell your story gives him courage, and he will ride in the car now with me. As his ma, I tear up be cause I want him to heal so badly. When I was 22 I was dragged, raped and beaten. I had a lot of trauma, therapy, etc and I'm 52 now. I still have issues. I GET IT! I am honored to accept you into our hearts to be able to allow healing. Thank you. You mean more to me and my son than you know. Your wife is cherished deeply, also. ❤
What a beautiful comment. Well, the hell you both have suffered is not so beautiful but it does tell me , and I'm sure others, all I need to know about your strenght. Plus, it was no coincidence that you are the mother your son needed. You are stronger than you know. Many blessings to you and all those you love.
My last comment got someone’s attention. I found treatment I open up to people and I feel great about it but thank you for looking out for me. I am so much happier now good girlfriend I brighter future. Keep your head up guys things get better for you.
These triggers are a struggle from day to day. I can't understand how therapists can just give up on you when they know you are struggling day to day. It's so sad! That's why the mental state of people is the way it is today. 😭 Thank you for sharing your struggles and triumphs. You don't even know how much it helps people especially me. Love to you and Judy! You should start an online group. I think it would truly be successful! Thank you for all you do. I really appreciate you!
Thank you for sharing. Although I don’t struggle with Agoraphobia it was very eye opening to hear your struggles. Also it sounds like you a married a real one which is super rare these days.
I've got a really good one too, they are out there. My husband's a great guy. There are times I plan to go food shopping. I write out my list. Plan it all out and would swear I was going to do it. My husband would offer to go for me and I would be~ I've got this. Then I'd start procrastinating. Find things I'd need to do first, then hours later I'd still be a home trying to talk myself into it. Next thing I'd be sitting in the car, shaking and crying. Then my husband would text me, asking if I'd forgotten anything at the store that he needed to pick up. He knew... he knew I hadn't made it. When I'd text him back and tell him that I hadn't went, he ask me to text him the grocery list. I'd beat myself up mentally for not going. He would come home after working all day with everything on the grocery list and some little something extra ... just for me. He never got mad at me for having to do more, and I'd always do extra for him to show him how much I appreciated and loved him too. I'm vegan ... he's not, not really. He does love some of my healthy vegan dishes BUT... those days when I need more from him because I can't leave the house... he gets the best carnivore dinners ever. Hmmm... now that I think about it... he does ask me often if I need anything from the stores.lol
I never knew what anxiety disorders were. I had depression since giving birth to my 1st son, it got worse after our 2nd child, also a son. My eldest son began showing signs I'd never seen in anyone. After forcing my child to go to school, etc. I finally took him to our doctor who sent me to a specialist. He was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Paxil was the WORST of them. They still 20 years later can't find the right mixture. I had my first about 6 months after the loss of my Mom while I was at work. My boss thought I was having a heart attack. I went to the hospital and they found I was having a severe panic attack. I felt bad for being a bad Mom to my son. We at least now can relate. I find I feel an attack coming around crowded places and hate it. Its embarrassing. Thank you for bringing this to the publics attention. My son now works for a CNC company as an inspector and has a band and has just starred in his first musical. I feel stuck, not hopeless just stuck. I get you .GOD BLESS YOUR WIFE JUDY AND YOU. You go together like peas in a pod.❤🎉
Love you using your platform to make us.laugh but also to help people. I could never explain the terror I felt when I had a full cart of items, broke down crying in a sweat and how to run out of store. Thank you thank you❤
God Bless you. It takes tremendous strength to talk about such a devastating condition. I cannot imagine the pain you have had to endure and overcome. Stay strong and know we are with you in prayer. You have so very much to offer others. Love and prayers to you.💯❤
🙏 Thank you for sharing, I've been struggling with this my whole life, I feel like I have to constantly reset those safe zones, especially if I don't venture outside everyday, spending a few days in the house will definitely set me back.
The therapy thing is CRAZY. They know you're suffering from a disorder that gives you panic attacks when you leave the house and yet they expect you to leave the house to come to an office for therapy?? That is insane!
I wouldn’t have ever guessed that you were dealing with this. Your videos are just what is needed. I have a daughter who deals with a lot of. She’s had a hard time dealing with her emotions, so this weekend I am taking her to Florida to see her sister and to get her away from home as she doesn’t drive and struggles with anxiety and life in general. Thank you for sharing and being so open.
You are a smart, brave man. Your wife is a blessing as you are to her. She may not understand what you are going through but she is there for you. My husband is my blessing. I thank God for him all the time. Prayers for you and your family for continued strength and love.
❤❤❤❤ You are beautiful!! Twenty years ago I became an agoraphobic... Meds didn't work, My family has been trying to understand what I go through - therapist stated that he was at a loss as to how to help me. Ten years of exposure therapy on my own.. ( I found that if I am alone I don't have the attacks as often. ) The fact that you are speaking up about the pathways you took.. are taking.. May help other people, is beautiful. Trust is harder for those people, peace.
I sat here crying listening to you describe me to a t! I would miss 3 appointments also because I couldn't leave my house. Having to do the intake process again and again. But with covid, now I can do my sessions by phone! I'm even considering TMS. I'm
The missing 3 appointments thing is such 🐂💩. Theyql absolutely don't know *or care* what we are going through, absolutely *no understanding* of it whatsoever. If they had to live with it for a week they then might begin to "get it."
Thank you for sharing your experience, it definitely helps to feel less alone. I regret missing important, once in a lifetime things. Especially funerals. And they think I didn't care. I do care and I ❤ the ones that I've lost so, so much.
You are amazing! Thank you for making these videos to educate and help others. While I don't have Agoraphobia, but I do believe it's real and I am grateful to see you doing well. Just keep taking things one say at a time. ❤
Dear Leo thank you for sharing your heart with us. Thank you for reminding us it is always a process and to be gentle with ourselves. A wonderful journey creating your safe spaces. By the way your short comedy videos are wonderfully funny! Love you!
As someone who was diagnosed as bipolar about 40 years ago, it took 10 years for me to find the right combination of drugs (and a therapist ) that worked for me. I want you to know that you have to keep trying , keep hope alive, and keep those goals set. Celebrate those small victories as huge accomplishments. Physically pat yourself on your back if you need to. Most of all, know that you have a community who loves and supports you unconditionally. Much love to you and your family ❤❤❤❤❤
Great job with the "baby steps" I have learned a lot in baby steps with how to take care of a spider and get rid of it. If they are above my head I still have to control my self, the fix is get something to get rid of it and not have it touch me. Cause if it touches me I freak out, but as long as I can control the situation I do pretty well.
Sending hugs and appreciation for your sharing. Your content is very funny and entertaining. You just never know what people are dealing with privately. Wishing you all the best and a world full of joy and peace.
God Bless you Leo 😇 I now understand your content a little more and I appreciate it even more so.... Keep going and thank you for becoming an advocate for yourself and others 😉🤗🙏💙
Агорафобия? Это слово я поняла. У меня тоже Агорафобия с 17 лет😬 Лайфхак: если каждый час заходить в любое помещение, то это помогает в пути. Ещё помогает Магний и B6.
My therapist didn't even call me to ask why I didn't do a video call with him. Because I forgot and I was going through a lot of anxiety and grieving over my brother's death. If a therapist isn't going to call you to see how you're doing then it's not worth my time.
Omg, I'm sitting here listening to you and crying for your emotional pain. I dont have panic attacks, but i do have anxiety. I rather do without sometimes than call to get work done on my home...etc. I just xod a dentist appointment to get a post put in(had a cracked tooth pulled). I just can't do it. The dentist is nice, all pleasant, but even for a cleaning, when I get home I'm like a wet dish rag. Now i take a Xanax b4 I go. Not crazy about it but ...I hear ya, we keep on, keeping on. Try, try again....Thanx for sharing. You're a gutsy guy with a great wife. Look forward for #3. I'll have tissue ready.😁😃😊
I love your suggestion of safe zones. Desensitization. I think I can do that. I'm always running away from places and people. I will try making myself remaining in places for short times and increasing them. I'll work on the people thing later. I'd rather not deal with most people. My kids call me feral and that is fine with me. Our relationship is getting better and they are the only people I want to care about.
I struggle as well and my new neibour keeps trying to cause issues, I really want to be in my backyard at least... waiting for the old house to sell to put up a fence 🤞
This is the first time I Have gotten in touch with you. But I'm in the same condition you are. I stay to myself don't like crowds. I like watching you UA-cam.
We love you & I'm so sorry you've been going through that. I pray you never have to go through that again. In the name of Jesus you & your wife have perfect peace.😊
I'd like to add to what BDL's (once again) amazing advice if he doesn't mind: A *good* therapist may push your comfort zone (a little) but they will NOT push you into a direction that you're not ready to go. So if you (like me) avoid therapy because you think they're going to try to push you into being a "normal" person -- who goes out and gets a job and stomachs the outside world like a champ -- that's not what therapy for agoraphobics should be about. Don't let catastrophizing (a negative coping skill) about the future get in your way, and don't let a bad therapist weaponize that negativity against you. What they should want is to work at is the root of what's driven you into this state of mind in the first place, and find positive coping skills that help you deal with it. From that point, if you find yourself wanting to move past your fear on your own, the therapist should be there for that too. If you're feeling a world of pressure coming from your therapist it can set you back so far back in your journey and you're going to have to do all that hard work all over again. Find a new one. A good therapist knows to customize treatment for each individual that walks through their door. Also, call-ins and online therapy via Zoom, etc are so much more widely available now. As well as online ratings (with a grain of salt) and other ways to vet the therapist, right from your own home. A note about meds: Although BDL spoke about his bad experiences with meds 26 years ago -- and I agree 100% with his choices -- it's important to know that psychology compared to traditional medicine is still in its infancy even now. We are still very much in a "let's see if it sticks" phase when it comes to medications. My pharmacist explained it to me this way: "We can't even explain consciousness yet. What works for some individuals won't work for another and the only way to find out is to actually take the meds and change them accordingly." I agree with that too. It took me 3 years of different meds (each for long periods of time) to find the right combination for me. If they make you drool, they're not helping anyone but the people around you who need you to calm down. If they shut down half the conversations you have with yourself (or others) inside your head so you can focus long enough to learn and practice coping skills then that's the right track. You still have to push that train. Uphill. That might mean No Meds. That might mean the meds your on, but a lesser dosage. I have PTSD and social anxiety disorder (and I minor in a few other things😉). I've been misdiagnosed with everything from depression to bipolar disorder by less than competent doctors. I have been on every color of the rainbow when it comes to pills, but now I only take Prozac because it's literally the only thing that's been helpful (because it shuts down harmful, looping thoughts so that I can concentrate). The rest just makes me easier for others to deal with the problem, but haven't helped Me to manage Me. Since I'm not criminally insane there's no quality of life there. Your "right" meds may be something different, even with identical symptoms. Or vice versa. If a prescribing doctor wants to up your dosage on something you tell them you want to quit, there's a chance they could be right. In my experience though it means they're all reading from the same playbook, not thinking for themselves, and definitely not thinking about your particular case. Your statement of "I want to quit" should open up a conversation, not an automatic solution. Like it or not, right now we're all still pharmaceutical guinea pigs and there's nothing we can do to change the present state of corresponding medications. In the meantime, Only You Can Prevent Dumpster Fires. Don't let others make you feel that because this one thing in your life is out of control, all of your viewpoints are distorted. That's total BS. Find someone you trust so you can depend on them when you're not seeing things for what they are. You'll know when you find them because they'll (gently) hold you accountable for your own BS but they won't manipulate you into doing something you don't want. They won't manipulate you at all. Good luck out there, Housebound Fam. And sorry for the book. I just can't help it.😅
I tried to find a support group for agoraphobics and there was a phone number. The guy that answered said “yeah we don’t have meetings anymore cuz no one ever comes.” It was like a bad dad joke
I felt a connection with you so much trauma I was walking 2 if my 4 dogs and a pit Bull pushed open the side gate. I only had a knife I was screaming nobody came. I was able to barricade us behind someone’s security door called 911 then the ghetto owner finally came didn’t like I was on 911 and ran off. I got his address animal control came long after I walked home crying hysterical. This dog was biting my dogs. How people responded was just calm down nobody is there for trauma anymore. Trauma is so hard. Did you try getting a stun gun, pepper spray, self defense stuff. Lock your doors and research safety tips to feel safe again and let your trauma know you won’t let this happen again. I only walk with my husband now with a bunch of self defense stuff. Statistically it doesn’t even seem possible. I love the baby steps you did and exposure therapy.
Did your recent experience having Ms. Judi in the hospital aggravate your agoraphobia?I can imagine all the stress and worry must have been a nightmare for you.
Fucking ad lost my train of thought but keep sharing the truth I am used to you doing funny avoiding the real problem in this fucked up world we are on in lal💜🙏💜
Have you tried hypnotherapy? It worked for my granddaughter. It sounds like you didn't get a good therapist. The brain is strange. If you deal with a the subconscious mind through this it will take you further Then if you Dealt with Just the brain. Hypnotherapy will help you. Thanks for sharing. God Bless you and yours!
This therapist is a charlatans. No therapist should force you to leave your house when they already kmoe your condition. I hope you give that therapist a one-star. God be with you. And keeping you in prayer always. He will guide you and help you through this journey.
Trauma took a part of you, the sense of trusting. It was a good idea to research. Marking territory is to set framed limits to achieve a desired goal. I’m so happy that you have Judi for so long. Trust “IS” everything. Knowing that you have your loved ones around and a grandson (if it’s only one?). It is part of a “desired” goal because now the TRUST expands to new adventures, new boundaries to explore with ONE you needs YOU! You now would have a safety latch! (A super power!). Thank you for sharing. There is one thing…with medications, when it leaves you “defenseless”, your brain recognizes you don’t have control if anything goes wrong. It’s probably why it didn’t work because being groggy/partially sedated makes you vulnerable in an uncomfortable setting. Some people “block” events and probably why some medications would work, but not ALL cases are the same. 🫶😇
This is called exposure therapy. It's incredibly difficult to open up publicly about mental health struggles, let alone to family or those you're close with. Leo, if you help one person, then it is worth it. I can't be in a vehicle without driving, period. May the Lord bless you and your family.
I have to be driving too - if I can't stop, get out, or turn around if I need to - nope.
Bless you! I have overcome so much in my life but even my doctor has no answers for my agoraphobia. My Healthcare says they offer counseling but they claim there isn't anything available for this kind of problem. The therapist told me to search on UA-cam and other internet sources for coping suggestions! I'm on Medicare so it's not like I have lots of alternatives for medical care 😂. To be truthful, during covid I was practically stress and anxiety free; never had to make excuses as to why I never went any where or didn't socialize...it was this introvert's dream! Lol! I no longer have any family, they have all passed as have most of my friends. I am 70 now and I actually enjoy being alone, there's a difference between being alone and being lonely. I am not lonely except I do miss my Nick who was my soul mate/twin flame and passed 5 years ago. I just can't handle being around people any more. As I stated in a post in another video I really am a burn out after a 30 year career as a psych nurse. Don't get me wrong, I love people, it just drains all my energy when I'm around others. I prefer doing my artwork and crafts and revel in the fact that finally I have the time to do what I love. I've tried the desensitization method, but it doesn't last. When Nick was still here he took me everywhere and I felt safe with him. As long as he was there I could do anything. I just wish I could get over the anxiety of leaving my apartment. Sorry this is so long...I really appreciate your talking about this. Much love to you and your Judi✌️🫶😊
Edit: local news just announced it official "stress awareness day"! I just laughed and laughed...😂
If you're not lonely or missing anything... nothing wrong with not wanting to socialize or be out... especially if your happy. And as long as you're not the nurse Ratchet type.lolol
(Sorry 🙃 I couldn't resist)
I'm sorry for your loss of Nick.
I suffer from agoraphobia and a few others so I understand those issues. Have you tried some of the online apps for grocery shopping etc? Some even deliver. Wish I'd known about them sooner myself.
I've even seen postings of people who will run your errands for you, including grocery shopping or take you to doctor appts etc, if something like that would help.
Be kind to yourself, each other and your pets. 💝
@notme2day still chuckling over the nurse ratchett reference 🤣
Yes, I do all my shopping online and get my stuff delivered, have been for the past few years now. Ima gamer, so I do have some puter savvy, used to even make skins for my Sims back in the day! Not a hacker or programmer tho.
My transportation to medical appts is provided for so that's not an issue but you're so kind to care enough to ask. Bless you! I always believed in treating my patients with dignity and respect foremost. I specialized in geriatrics, specifically dementia and alzheimers. My patients were like family to me. Sorry to say I'm not seeing that same level of care in the medical profession today...but to be fair, all are overworked and understaffed, and burnout is a very real thing. Thank you for your kind concern, I hope you find your peace as well...I find creative hobbies a great form of therapy personally.
Know the panic attacks. Get them in check out lines at stores, waiting for a doctors appointment, ect. The waiting has always drove me insane.
Thank you again. Incredibly brave. My son is really taking you in. He is 20 now. When he was 16 his best friend was killed by his own dad's mental illness. Then covid happened on his birthday, the world shut down and he did at home school. He graduated h.s. early, from home. But is fearful of the world. I've tried to get him to do therapy from home via text, chat, or zoom. He wants it but is terrified. Watching you tell your story gives him courage, and he will ride in the car now with me. As his ma, I tear up be cause I want him to heal so badly. When I was 22 I was dragged, raped and beaten. I had a lot of trauma, therapy, etc and I'm 52 now. I still have issues. I GET IT! I am honored to accept you into our hearts to be able to allow healing. Thank you. You mean more to me and my son than you know. Your wife is cherished deeply, also. ❤
What a beautiful comment. Well, the hell you both have suffered is not so beautiful but it does tell me , and I'm sure others, all I need to know about your strenght. Plus, it was no coincidence that you are the mother your son needed. You are stronger than you know. Many blessings to you and all those you love.
@@SparkyTuttle thank you
My last comment got someone’s attention. I found treatment I open up to people and I feel great about it but thank you for looking out for me. I am so much happier now good girlfriend I brighter future. Keep your head up guys things get better for you.
I appreciate your sharing; you are not alone.
I developed agoraphobia after a tragic event outside my home.
Your courage is commendable.
These triggers are a struggle from day to day. I can't understand how therapists can just give up on you when they know you are struggling day to day. It's so sad! That's why the mental state of people is the way it is today. 😭 Thank you for sharing your struggles and triumphs. You don't even know how much it helps people especially me. Love to you and Judy! You should start an online group. I think it would truly be successful! Thank you for all you do. I really appreciate you!
Thank you for sharing. Although I don’t struggle with Agoraphobia it was very eye opening to hear your struggles. Also it sounds like you a married a real one which is super rare these days.
I've got a really good one too, they are out there.
My husband's a great guy.
There are times I plan to go food shopping. I write out my list. Plan it all out and would swear I was going to do it. My husband would offer to go for me and I would be~ I've got this. Then I'd start procrastinating. Find things I'd need to do first, then hours later I'd still be a home trying to talk myself into it. Next thing I'd be sitting in the car, shaking and crying. Then my husband would text me, asking if I'd forgotten anything at the store that he needed to pick up. He knew... he knew I hadn't made it. When I'd text him back and tell him that I hadn't went, he ask me to text him the grocery list.
I'd beat myself up mentally for not going.
He would come home after working all day with everything on the grocery list and some little something extra ... just for me.
He never got mad at me for having to do more, and I'd always do extra for him to show him how much I appreciated and loved him too.
I'm vegan ... he's not, not really. He does love some of my healthy vegan dishes BUT... those days when I need more from him because I can't leave the house... he gets the best carnivore dinners ever.
Hmmm... now that I think about it... he does ask me often if I need anything from the stores.lol
I never knew what anxiety disorders were. I had depression since giving birth to my 1st son, it got worse after our 2nd child, also a son. My eldest son began showing signs I'd never seen in anyone. After forcing my child to go to school, etc. I finally took him to our doctor who sent me to a specialist. He was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Paxil was the WORST of them. They still 20 years later can't find the right mixture. I had my first about 6 months after the loss of my Mom while I was at work. My boss thought I was having a heart attack. I went to the hospital and they found I was having a severe panic attack. I felt bad for being a bad Mom to my son. We at least now can relate. I find I feel an attack coming around crowded places and hate it. Its embarrassing. Thank you for bringing this to the publics attention. My son now works for a CNC company as an inspector and has a band and has just starred in his first musical. I feel stuck, not hopeless just stuck. I get you .GOD BLESS YOUR WIFE JUDY AND YOU. You go together like peas in a pod.❤🎉
Love you using your platform to make us.laugh but also to help people. I could never explain the terror I felt when I had a full cart of items, broke down crying in a sweat and how to run out of store. Thank you thank you❤
God Bless you. It takes tremendous strength to talk about such a devastating condition. I cannot imagine the pain you have had to endure and overcome. Stay strong and know we are with you in prayer. You have so very much to offer others. Love and prayers to you.💯❤
🙏 Thank you for sharing, I've been struggling with this my whole life, I feel like I have to constantly reset those safe zones, especially if I don't venture outside everyday, spending a few days in the house will definitely set me back.
The therapy thing is CRAZY. They know you're suffering from a disorder that gives you panic attacks when you leave the house and yet they expect you to leave the house to come to an office for therapy?? That is insane!
They sure do, been to a place that does the same thing. 3 strikes and you can't come back till the next year. It's utter madness.
I wouldn’t have ever guessed that you were dealing with this. Your videos are just what is needed. I have a daughter who deals with a lot of. She’s had a hard time dealing with her emotions, so this weekend I am taking her to Florida to see her sister and to get her away from home as she doesn’t drive and struggles with anxiety and life in general. Thank you for sharing and being so open.
You are a smart, brave man. Your wife is a blessing as you are to her. She may not understand what you are going through but she is there for you. My husband is my blessing. I thank God for him all the time. Prayers for you and your family for continued strength and love.
❤❤❤❤
You are beautiful!!
Twenty years ago I became an agoraphobic...
Meds didn't work,
My family has been trying to understand what I go through - therapist stated that he was at a loss as to how to help me.
Ten years of exposure therapy on my own..
( I found that if I am alone I don't have the attacks as often. )
The fact that you are speaking up about the pathways you took.. are taking..
May help other people, is beautiful.
Trust is harder for those people, peace.
I sat here crying listening to you describe me to a t! I would miss 3 appointments also because I couldn't leave my house. Having to do the intake process again and again. But with covid, now I can do my sessions by phone! I'm even considering TMS.
I'm
The missing 3 appointments thing is such 🐂💩. Theyql absolutely don't know *or care* what we are going through, absolutely *no understanding* of it whatsoever. If they had to live with it for a week they then might begin to "get it."
That is fantastic. You never know what someone is going through. Glad you found what works for you. Love you too.
Thank you for sharing this. It will help many people.
And we love and appreciate you leo, you are such a good loving soul! ❤
You're a good dude. I wish you nothing but luck with this. Take care.
Thank you for sharing your experience, it definitely helps to feel less alone. I regret missing important, once in a lifetime things. Especially funerals. And they think I didn't care. I do care and I ❤ the ones that I've lost so, so much.
You are amazing! Thank you for making these videos to educate and help others. While I don't have Agoraphobia, but I do believe it's real and I am grateful to see you doing well. Just keep taking things one say at a time. ❤
Dear Leo thank you for sharing your heart with us. Thank you for reminding us it is always a process and to be gentle with ourselves. A wonderful journey creating your safe spaces. By the way your short comedy videos are wonderfully funny! Love you!
Thank you for sharing, and your courage to do this. To tell others that it's ok to go through things, and it's ok to ask for help.
You rock!
Brother, you and your family are loved by many. You're a brave man for taking the first step. You got a friend in me.
We should game together
I'm glad you're are sharing so that others may be encouraged to keep trying. Your family is your best support system I'm glad you have them.
As someone who was diagnosed as bipolar about 40 years ago, it took 10 years for me to find the right combination of drugs (and a therapist ) that worked for me. I want you to know that you have to keep trying , keep hope alive, and keep those goals set. Celebrate those small victories as huge accomplishments. Physically pat yourself on your back if you need to. Most of all, know that you have a community who loves and supports you unconditionally. Much love to you and your family
❤❤❤❤❤
Great job with the "baby steps" I have learned a lot in baby steps with how to take care of a spider and get rid of it. If they are above my head I still have to control my self, the fix is get something to get rid of it and not have it touch me. Cause if it touches me I freak out, but as long as I can control the situation I do pretty well.
Sending hugs and appreciation for your sharing. Your content is very funny and entertaining. You just never know what people are dealing with privately. Wishing you all the best and a world full of joy and peace.
Hey Leo, its Avodia... Your posts are Very Helpfull & i hope people can heed your advice & experience & feel better. Thankyou for this...
God Bless you Leo 😇
I now understand your content a little more and I appreciate it even more so.... Keep going and thank you for becoming an advocate for yourself and others 😉🤗🙏💙
Thank you for sharing your story, it is another step in the process!
You are such a good person and thank goodness for your wife. Thank you for sharing ❤
May God bless you and keep you.❤
Thanks for sharing your struggles. God Bless.
Агорафобия? Это слово я поняла. У меня тоже Агорафобия с 17 лет😬 Лайфхак: если каждый час заходить в любое помещение, то это помогает в пути. Ещё помогает Магний и B6.
Thank you again for your story and help.
My therapist didn't even call me to ask why I didn't do a video call with him. Because I forgot and I was going through a lot of anxiety and grieving over my brother's death. If a therapist isn't going to call you to see how you're doing then it's not worth my time.
I appreciate you talking about this.
I can't even leave the house because my anxiety is so bad and if I do I will start throwing up I hate being like this
Omg, I'm sitting here listening to you and crying for your emotional pain. I dont have panic attacks, but i do have anxiety. I rather do without sometimes than call to get work done on my home...etc. I just xod a dentist appointment to get a post put in(had a cracked tooth pulled). I just can't do it. The dentist is nice, all pleasant, but even for a cleaning, when I get home I'm like a wet dish rag. Now i take a Xanax b4 I go. Not crazy about it but ...I hear ya, we keep on, keeping on. Try, try again....Thanx for sharing. You're a gutsy guy with a great wife. Look forward for #3. I'll have tissue ready.😁😃😊
Keep doing what you are doing 🧡from the U.K.
So proud of you!❤
I did that too. The mailbox was my first safe place
I love your suggestion of safe zones. Desensitization. I think I can do that. I'm always running away from places and people. I will try making myself remaining in places for short times and increasing them. I'll work on the people thing later. I'd rather not deal with most people. My kids call me feral and that is fine with me. Our relationship is getting better and they are the only people I want to care about.
Thank you for sharing your experience❤
I struggle as well and my new neibour keeps trying to cause issues, I really want to be in my backyard at least... waiting for the old house to sell to put up a fence 🤞
Your wife and yourself, have been your best therapist. 😊
Я не понимаю о чем ты здесь говоришь. Но хочу сказать, что ты прекрасный. Счастья тебе! ❤
Thank you for sharing 💓
This is the first time I Have gotten in touch with you. But I'm in the same condition you are. I stay to myself don't like crowds. I like watching you UA-cam.
We love you & I'm so sorry you've been going through that. I pray you never have to go through that again. In the name of Jesus you & your wife have perfect peace.😊
I’m very proud of you! ❤️
I'd like to add to what BDL's (once again) amazing advice if he doesn't mind:
A *good* therapist may push your comfort zone (a little) but they will NOT push you into a direction that you're not ready to go. So if you (like me) avoid therapy because you think they're going to try to push you into being a "normal" person -- who goes out and gets a job and stomachs the outside world like a champ -- that's not what therapy for agoraphobics should be about. Don't let catastrophizing (a negative coping skill) about the future get in your way, and don't let a bad therapist weaponize that negativity against you. What they should want is to work at is the root of what's driven you into this state of mind in the first place, and find positive coping skills that help you deal with it. From that point, if you find yourself wanting to move past your fear on your own, the therapist should be there for that too. If you're feeling a world of pressure coming from your therapist it can set you back so far back in your journey and you're going to have to do all that hard work all over again. Find a new one. A good therapist knows to customize treatment for each individual that walks through their door. Also, call-ins and online therapy via Zoom, etc are so much more widely available now. As well as online ratings (with a grain of salt) and other ways to vet the therapist, right from your own home.
A note about meds: Although BDL spoke about his bad experiences with meds 26 years ago -- and I agree 100% with his choices -- it's important to know that psychology compared to traditional medicine is still in its infancy even now. We are still very much in a "let's see if it sticks" phase when it comes to medications. My pharmacist explained it to me this way: "We can't even explain consciousness yet. What works for some individuals won't work for another and the only way to find out is to actually take the meds and change them accordingly." I agree with that too. It took me 3 years of different meds (each for long periods of time) to find the right combination for me. If they make you drool, they're not helping anyone but the people around you who need you to calm down. If they shut down half the conversations you have with yourself (or others) inside your head so you can focus long enough to learn and practice coping skills then that's the right track. You still have to push that train. Uphill. That might mean No Meds. That might mean the meds your on, but a lesser dosage.
I have PTSD and social anxiety disorder (and I minor in a few other things😉). I've been misdiagnosed with everything from depression to bipolar disorder by less than competent doctors. I have been on every color of the rainbow when it comes to pills, but now I only take Prozac because it's literally the only thing that's been helpful (because it shuts down harmful, looping thoughts so that I can concentrate). The rest just makes me easier for others to deal with the problem, but haven't helped Me to manage Me. Since I'm not criminally insane there's no quality of life there. Your "right" meds may be something different, even with identical symptoms. Or vice versa. If a prescribing doctor wants to up your dosage on something you tell them you want to quit, there's a chance they could be right. In my experience though it means they're all reading from the same playbook, not thinking for themselves, and definitely not thinking about your particular case. Your statement of "I want to quit" should open up a conversation, not an automatic solution.
Like it or not, right now we're all still pharmaceutical guinea pigs and there's nothing we can do to change the present state of corresponding medications. In the meantime, Only You Can Prevent Dumpster Fires. Don't let others make you feel that because this one thing in your life is out of control, all of your viewpoints are distorted. That's total BS. Find someone you trust so you can depend on them when you're not seeing things for what they are. You'll know when you find them because they'll (gently) hold you accountable for your own BS but they won't manipulate you into doing something you don't want. They won't manipulate you at all.
Good luck out there, Housebound Fam. And sorry for the book. I just can't help it.😅
Keep the faith ❤
I tried to find a support group for agoraphobics and there was a phone number. The guy that answered said “yeah we don’t have meetings anymore cuz no one ever comes.” It was like a bad dad joke
Thanks for sharing
Thanks!
Thank you so much 😎🙏🏾❤️
I felt a connection with you so much trauma I was walking 2 if my 4 dogs and a pit Bull pushed open the side gate. I only had a knife I was screaming nobody came. I was able to barricade us behind someone’s security door called 911 then the ghetto owner finally came didn’t like I was on 911 and ran off. I got his address animal control came long after I walked home crying hysterical. This dog was biting my dogs. How people responded was just calm down nobody is there for trauma anymore. Trauma is so hard. Did you try getting a stun gun, pepper spray, self defense stuff. Lock your doors and research safety tips to feel safe again and let your trauma know you won’t let this happen again. I only walk with my husband now with a bunch of self defense stuff. Statistically it doesn’t even seem possible. I love the baby steps you did and exposure therapy.
Thank you :)
Praying for your daughter to receive healing from our Lord.
❤❤❤
There is a lot of scammers out there to. Oh there's an old woman I bet she's got money. I'll make believe I can help her
❤
❤❤❤❤❤❤
ну хоть у него одного пока нет шуток ниже пояса совсем другие оборзели дети смотрят ,здесь пока порядок 😂
❤️👍
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Did your recent experience having Ms. Judi in the hospital aggravate your agoraphobia?I can imagine all the stress and worry must have been a nightmare for you.
Fucking ad lost my train of thought but keep sharing the truth I am used to you doing funny avoiding the real problem in this fucked up world we are on in lal💜🙏💜
Have you tried hypnotherapy? It worked for my granddaughter. It sounds like you didn't get a good therapist. The brain is strange. If you deal with a the subconscious mind through this it will take you further Then if you Dealt with Just the brain. Hypnotherapy will help you. Thanks for sharing. God Bless you and yours!
This therapist is a charlatans. No therapist should force you to leave your house when they already kmoe your condition.
I hope you give that therapist a one-star.
God be with you. And keeping you in prayer always. He will guide you and help you through this journey.
Inner world vR apple or pc come talk about it in a safe place
haven't been outside in nearly seven years. how the hell do you go to a doctor? sheesh
Trauma took a part of you, the sense of trusting. It was a good idea to research. Marking territory is to set framed limits to achieve a desired goal. I’m so happy that you have Judi for so long. Trust “IS” everything. Knowing that you have your loved ones around and a grandson (if it’s only one?). It is part of a “desired” goal because now the TRUST expands to new adventures, new boundaries to explore with ONE you needs YOU! You now would have a safety latch! (A super power!). Thank you for sharing. There is one thing…with medications, when it leaves you “defenseless”, your brain recognizes you don’t have control if anything goes wrong. It’s probably why it didn’t work because being groggy/partially sedated makes you vulnerable in an uncomfortable setting. Some people “block” events and probably why some medications would work, but not ALL cases are the same. 🫶😇
Thanks!
Thank you so much 😎🙏🏾❤️
❤