severe aggraphobia

[jp_g6]

i have a brother that hasnt been out in public in 7 years ,we are trying to get himto a theripest but he cannot make it out of the house we think its aggraphobia he has

[jp_g6]

thanks for all  the info it has pointed me in the right direction its goin to b a long road but we will get there

[mammo]

Your brother's in a tough situation, but don't give up.  I'm sure if you can talk to a specialist they can help find ways to get him to see someone, some doctors will even come to the house in a situation like this.  It's a horrible way for your brother to have to live, and wonderful that he has you looking after him.  Make some calls around to different mental health agencies and see what resources they have for someone like him, there has to be a way to do this.  I think he will need medication to even be able to have therapy, but if that's what it takes....so be it.  I'm not a doctor but if he can't get out one time for help it's going to be too much for him to go on a regular basis for therapy without something medicine wise to aid him.  Therapy can also be a lengthy process and medication helps with that.  Make some calls to all the local agencies, someone willl be able to point you in the right direction.  Good luck and I wish you both all the best!

[DJ873]

I have dealt with agoraphobia and it is a tough road. If he hasn't been out in 7 years a trip to a therapist may be too much for him. You really have to start small. Being outdoors a little more every day, Sitting, just sitting in a car for a while, walking to the corner, etc. day by day. I have been lucky and have a therapist that comes to me. Some may be willing to do that. There are also some phone therapists. If he uses the internet these forums are fantastic, they have helped me as much as anything. I get out every day now. Go further and further do more and more and am builing a momentum. I am facing one of my biggest fears tomorrow in fact. There are also some great books, get out of your mind and into your life comes to mind right now but there are so many. You can find mindful meditations on the internet as wll. Lifehut.com has some great ones you might try. You are very good to try to help and support him.

[RubyWitch]

Your brother definitely needs therapy, but as you say, it's getting him there that's the rub. I wish you would post this over on our Agoraphobia Forum. The folks over there will have much better ideas on how to help your brother than I do.
If you want to post to us about any anxiety or panic issues, we're always here.
I wish you the best
Peace
Greenlydia