Newb here - Fear of crowds, etc

[Waffler]

First of all, hello.

I just ran across this forum. Searched it out after deciding to find others with the same problem - fear of crowds, crowded places. Basically Demophobia, maybe a little Agoraphobic too.

Not afraid of going out - just like to avoid busy affairs, malls, events. About 13 years ago I was in a crowded store in a long line and all of a sudden I had a panic attack and fainted. I am a pretty big guy and not generally a "scairdy cat" - I just woke up on the floor with strangers staring down at me. Told them I had the flu - Since then, I just cannot do crowds.

My problem is that my friends don't really understand. I turned down a wedding invitation for one of my best friends today and I know he's pissed, but I'm still not going.

In general I don't see my phobia as a big problem. I just avoid the things that bring on the panic. I have no desire to go to any of them, so I am not in need of any medication or therapy to fix it. It is just who I am.

I guess I just wanted to know how others felt who have the same problem.

Thanks
Waffler

 

[Blabla..]

Hey welcome ,

it's what i do too , i avoid things . I don't go out , i have no more friends , and i don't care really , i'm good by myself . But it has gotten me to a point where it's hard to just put a foot outside to go buy food , take out the trash , it's even hard now to sit on my balcony , fearing people will spot me and judge me laugh at me from a distance. Forget about crowded places , the bus , big stores , i just can't anymore.

I could become a hermit in a cave , but this anxiety is just making me feel trapped wherever i am , i know that there will be moments where i will have to face it , it has to end .

 

[coyote]

Hi, and welcome to the forum.

 

[Waffler]

Thanks for the replies. Hi Coyote, Blabla.

Blabla - In my own personal experiences I found that exercise helped 100% to get me out of a funk. I have suffered from depression as well and getting out for a long walk helped me, though I prefer less congested areas for walking.

I actually function pretty well with this phobia. But I have to work so that it doesn't get worse. Although I actually enjoy being reclusive, I do not want to BE that way with no choice.

I make sure and go to public places, but stick to the less crowded ones and once I get used to a "place" like a restaurant, then over time I can deal with larger crowds in those places. It is like I just need a certain comfort level and that takes time.

I hope you are able to get out a bit - I know what it is like to be housebound and I don't ever want to go there again.

 

[Kiwong]

Howdy Waffler.

I also have a fear shopping malls, also had my first panic attack in one.

other crowds like football games, big fun runs don't bother me.