Panic and anxiety tends to immobilize people, so much so, that some people have a fear of even leaving their home.

Agoraphobia is the technical term used to describe people who are afraid of open spaces or being in crowded places like malls, outdoor markets and theme parks. If you’ve ever felt anxious about leaving home, or your “safe zone”, you’re experiencing some of the effects of agoraphobia.

The truth is, those feelings are really just feelings of vulnerability. People who suffer from panic attacks feel like they are more vulnerable in certain situations, and so they have difficulty feeling comfortable in a public place. These fears don’t have to immobilize you. The issue you need to address is that there really is no safe zone.

I talk about this in more detail in my book Panic Away. This sense of comfort in a certain place is actually a myth that your mind has started to believe. The reality is, the safe zone is all in your mind. You could be in the same state of mind sitting comfortably at home, as you could be standing in the middle of a crowd at a sports stadium. All you need to do is learn to feel safe with the uncomfortable bodily sensations that trouble you.

Learning to process the sensations that scare you is the most empowering way to feel confident anywhere. You do not worry about finding an exit because you feel perfectly capable of handling any anxiety that you might experience.

Ask yourself what would you do and where would you go if you were not afraid?

It can be terrifying to deal with these issues and fears, but when you break down the walls you have created for yourself, you’ll be on your way to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

I urge you to learn today how to release the tension and fears that keep you feeling trapped.

Barry Joe McDonagh
PanicAway.com