Having anxiety is so embarrassing because what do you mean I’m afraid of the movie theater..

Okay not actually the movie theater but more so being in the dark with a bunch of strangers and I HAVE to have an escape plan in case something happens..

I haven’t been to the movies in like 13 years but I have been asked and I refuse I’d rather watch a movie from the safety of home

I also can’t go anywhere without coming up with an escape plan 😅

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PerfectionOfTheHeart · 46-50, F

My husband is ex military police and his training taught him to enter any establishment the same way…looking for the nearest escape points just in case.

My anxiety is pretty up there, but I actually felt safe in a theater because it was dark and no one could see the anxiety rush over me. Well lit places terrify me more because I feel like I’m on display too much, making it harder to hide anything.

But I’ve learned with experiences like yours that exposure therapy is the only way to overcome those fears in an attempt to live a somewhat normal life. Immersing yourself in a fearful situation can be paralyzing in itself, but each time you get on the other side of it you retrain your brain to know that you can exist safely in those situations and environments.

MommaBear · 26-30, F

@PerfectionOfTheHeart I’m always looking for the best escape route it’s exhausting but I can’t help it my mind always goes to the what ifs