. . . does staying indoors as a result of being an introvert become something else like . . hermitism?
Or what does the beginnings of agoraphobia look like? Feel like? My mom suffered from agoraphobia. The manifestation was extremely present during my teen years. She was unable to go outdoors for the most part and suffered severe bouts of anxiety at the prospect of same. When did that begin? Or was it always a thing that got progressively worse?
Medications and therapy quieted the anxieties to a point where she was able to function. But of course, being anxious was always part of her being.
While I am not feeling particularly social these days, I am also not feeling particularly anxious at the prospect of being outdoors, among people, in social interactive situations. Nor am I feeling particularly anxious over not feeling particularly social and deciding to stay in over taking myself out to a movie, or brunch, or even the grocery store.
Is what I'm experiencing the introverted me being spent over the daily social interactive experiences by the time the weekend rolls around?
Or . . . . ?
just kinda thinking outloud
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Like most things in life, I think there is a very thin line between one and the other. It is very easy to allow oneself to get deeper and deeper into a hole and if agoraphobia is not something you want in your life, then some professional help along with some graduated outings might be called for to practice and to ward off the anxiety.
ReplyDeleteI was always an introvert but then trauma gave me severe anxiety. Today I force myself to arrange a lunch date with someone at least once every 2 weeks. I always, always enjoy it but it is very hard work for me. Still I do it because I think my only other option is becoming a hermit lady with 37 cats : )
37 cats?!
DeleteWell, no.
Can't do lunches but, if something should be done . . maybe re-open the Meet-Up account.
I find that a week where I have a lot of stuff happening that requires interaction- whether work or for fun, I need a very quiet weekend. So some of that is just introvert recovery time
ReplyDeleteThat is some, so not over-worried. But, some work weeks are just that, no big. Still, I get to the weekend and feel little enthusiasm. Weird especially as the weather is so nice now. Then again, not so weird as everyone is outdoors because the weather is so nice. ;-)
DeleteI agree that it sounds more like recovery from a social week, rather than danger of becoming a hermit or agoraphobic. I think the fear, the sense of danger in being out of your home would push it into something beyond quiet time needed at the end of a week, recharging from all the social stimulation, and preferring your home to the outside. I think if it became a paralyzing thing, an "I CAN'T go outside" rather than a "I'd rather not," then help would be a good thing. Good of you to think through the differences and keep an eye on things for yourself!
ReplyDeleteWise words.
DeleteKeeping my eyes (and head) on the line in the sand.
I've wondered this more than a few times in my life, having had bouts of diagnosed (and treated) agoraphobia related to other anxiety/depression symptoms. I agree with others who said it sounds more like this is a case of recovering from recent events. Hope you're feeling rejuvenated soon.
ReplyDeleteThank you, I appreciate your insight.
DeleteMe too. :-)
I'm not sure when that point comes. Good question. Maybe when the reluctance becomes a full blown fear? It seems more like you just need some regular down time.
ReplyDeleteHmmm...good question.
DeleteIt does. I am thinking.
This resonates with me a lot. I think I have grown so accustomed to being in the house (since I work out of the house) that I feel most comfortable in the house. And there are many days when I don't go out at all or see anyone who isn't in my family. I've found when I do go out, I hate crowded places or having to socialize too much. So is it good old fashioned introversion or something wrong? I'm with you in wondering aloud.
ReplyDeleteThinking (and writing) helps.
DeleteI think you answered your question when you said, "I am also not feeling particularly anxious at the prospect of being outdoors, among people, in social interactive situations." I do find though it is very easy to fall into the habit of not going out. When I push myself, I really enjoy it, whether it is being in nature, or out with friends.
ReplyDeleteYes, the potential for a slippery slope.
DeleteI'm an extrovert, so I don't have the same drained feeling from extended socializing. I agree with what others have mentioned in that the fine line is defined by how much it affects your ability to go out versus your desire to do so. I also think awareness and your admittance to being aware is a step in the right direction. Hopefully your quiet weekend has rejuvenated you!
ReplyDeleteWell, enough to get to work and back anyway. :-)
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