Agoraphobia

My girlfriend suffers from agoraphbia. I want to learn ways to help her beat this and to cope with her when she isn't having such a good day. Any advice/help would be appreciated...Thanx,JAXX

[ducky8]

It's really supportive of you to want to help your girlfriend.  
The position you're in isn't an easy one.  
I think the biggest and best thing you can do is LISTEN to her when she wants to talk about it, and ASK her what she wants to do to beat this.  If she hasn't already started reading about this disorder, get her a book called "The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook" by Edward Bourne.  That will get her started.  
But in the end it's your girlfriend who will have to do the work and the babystepping.  All you can do is be patient and supportive, and encourage her to get some good cognitive behavioral therapy.  It's can be a long road, but there's tons of hope for recovery if you do the work.  
By the way, there's also a section in the book for the agoraphobic's support person.  Every now and then you're going to need some encouragement too.  
Good luck to you both.  
DUCKY

[makiwaje]

everytime i get a panic attack my husband will assure me that i am safe.he doesnt show that he is worried cuz if he does,the more i will freak out.he is so relaxed and always guide me.he keeps talking to me to distract my attention.he really helped me a lot!and i agree that the book called THE ANXIETY and PHOBIA WORKBOOK is very helpful!i take xanax too if needed.your gf is lucky to have you!goodluck :)

[neilq5]

Keep reassuring her that you are there every step of the way.
you have to be VERY patient with this as it will take time, just try making small steps first. Try going on a short walk very early in the morning where no-one will be around. just around the block or something. Then very gradually go at a slightly later time where there'll be a few more people around. Keep this up until for a few months until you have reached rush hour.
I've helped my ex with this method and now she's less of an Agoraphobic than i am