by S.A.Robb

Created on: October 28, 2008   Last Updated: September 28, 2010

There are many ways in which to treat anxiety disorders, so yes they can be treated. The true issue is whether or not you are using a valid method to treat it, and are you putting your best effort forth in order to get better.

I have been undergoing treatment for Panic Disorder, which is an anxiety disorder for almost five years. I had anxiety for almost twelve but didn't know it. I lived my life in severe limitation losing touch with friends and family as people got tired of me declining their invitations out.

My lowest point was when I had too much anxiety to get on the plane to go to my father's funeral. I knew then that I had to do something. There was something wrong with me other than a nervous stomach and a dislike of social situations.

I talked to my family doctor and he tried me on anti-depressants which did nothing to help. They sent me to the emergency room with horrible side effects. At this point in the story I have to admit that I was also not putting forth as much effort as I could have. I had become comfortable with my life and people having no expectations of me, it was safe.

I began to see a therapist and told her what she wanted to hear. Talk therapy, cognitive therapy, they are all great especially when you know what to tell the therapist. I was signed off as cured and on my way. I went straight back to square one, not any better.

It was not until I got so disgusted with myself that I decided to truly seek out treatment in order to get better. I saw my family doctor who referred me to a psychiatrist. This psychiatrist told me that I had Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia. I had left my house on about three occasions in four years. He told me the flat out truth.

There are no easy cures, bottled or otherwise. Therapy will help, medications will help, but the only thing that works is how much effort and energy I put forth into getting better. I joined a support group, stuck with therapy and was honest, took the medication, did anxiety exercises, and put all my energy forth. I began to have expectations of myself, and so did others.

As time went on, as anxiety disorders take more than a few months to get better, I began to go out more. I had friends again and it felt fantastic. After several years of treatment I am no longer agoraphobic, able to leave my house with no problem. I can go out, go to concerts, movies, the mall, and family get togethers. I still have a few things to tackle such as taking a plane and traveling.

However looking back at where I started, not leaving my house, to where I am now, doing whatever I want for the most part. I can honestly say that yes anxiety disorders can be treated, and ameliorated to the point where your quality of life is significantly higher. All it really takes is your willingness to get better and deal with it.

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