Questioning

I was wondering if those who have agoraphobia are born with it, have a tendency for it, or just develop it?

I ask these things because I feel that something has really changed in me. I think I have always had a tendency to being depressed, sometimes severely. In the last 6-8 months it has seemed to take a bit of a different turn.

Before in my depressed states I would just go and go in order to basically run from the feelings. I hated to not be doing something at all times. That was just how depression was for me. I didn't have a lot of energy at all but I would use every once of it till I dropped.

I now find myself in a state where I just don't want to ever go outside of my home. To make matters worse, the idea of someone crossing the threshold is just unbearable for me. I always was a social person. I was never one for entertaining at home but I enjoyed socializing with people. Now, the idea is just so unpalatable.

I don't know if this is agoraphobia or what it is. I just know that it has more than taken over my life. It has become my life.

Hello and sorry about the late reply...

I think the avoidance and anxiety that lead to the condition is something that develops over our lifetime due to our experiences.

Are you still able to sometimes go out? If you are, I think it would be of benefit for you to consider getting some therapy to help with these issues... There might be some sort of online therapy available maybe if you are not able to leave your house whatsoever...

It certainly seems that even if you are not suffering from full-blown agoraphobia, that you are certainly suffering from your depression and anxiety that would very much warrant treatment...