Trust me, a person who took control of their anxiety is a badass. You literally have to decide to go to war with it, let it hit you hard in order to train your senses how to deal with it. It's hard, it's scary but everyone can do it. Also, because not talking about it when it's happening adds to the anxiety, exposing it disarms it in a way.
“I’m learning to go to war just to be here.” This whole video made me tear up. To be a black man and acknowledge your mental health and then work on it is so inspiring. Thank you.
I disagree. He stated He had everything inside him already. That's all he truly needed. This mindset of thinking others need to help fix and support you is over. Take care of yourself. Or be your own worst enemy
I’m glad agoraphobia is being brought to light. A lot of people suffer from this in silence it’s not talked about like other mental health disorders. He is brave and I hope he can live a fulfilled life.
This is such a debilitating condition. I really felt that when he talked about missing monumental events in his friends and families lives. The worst part is that so many people roll their eyes .. sometimes family will think you are just being dramatic or lazy. Most people can't relate to the kind of disorder that prevents you from leaving your home.
I know. These disorders are real. I feel like my relative still doesn't understand my claustrophobia. And that I'm not intentionally choosing not to travel across state on a plane to key events.
I suffered w/agoraphobia for 25 years. Had no help, just me. Saw a movie w/ bill murray where he always said "baby steps". Thats what i did. It IS a prison. My life is much better now.
Yes Agoraphobia really is a Prison , I remember staring out the window ; watching kids play and cars drive by . I was afraid to leave my Home, didn't feel real Sunlight, for a whole year... Fast forward Baby steps is what got me back Going. It sucks to have Agoraphobia but I'm glad I'm not alone 🙏
Baby steps is the only way. I'm doing so much better now than I was 3-4 months ago and I never would be here if I didn't have that mindset. It's okay to fall sometimes, it's okay to have bad days, but week by week if you put in effort you will see the progress you just need to apply it consistently. The hardest part is dealing with the bad days, but with consistent effort, noticing my progress over longer periods of time has given me so much hope and more motivation than ever
One of my uncles had this. It took him nearly 30 years to get to the point where he could work. Until the day he died that was the only thing he could do - walk to work, work his job, and walk back home. His fear even prevented him from attending my mom’s funeral but he was able to attend his wife’s. This is awesome 😎 So happy for this guy 👏🏽
You have insight into the lives of more than you might think. That you understand and accept this is so comforting to someone with similar experience. I truly thank you for recognizing and remembering your uncle's struggle.
I was having a panic attack and a young man walked up to me and said "let's go Grandma". I never saw this man before and never saw him again. But because of him I don't feel alone when I go to the store. "He" might be anywhere and could be anybody. Positive thoughts only ❣️
Why do people say that .. he's so well spoken" about a black person? Is it to be expected that we aren't articulate or educated enough to speak well? That statement is an insult to one's intelligence. I don't think your comment was meant to be malicious, but I guarantee if he was a white guy, you would have never made the comment.
First had anxiety attacks at age 22 and slowly became housebound...literally. I still don't do my own grocery shopping because the store is so big it is overwhelming, but can do it as long as someone else is with me. I have adapted and adjusted as far as I will be able to. I am 73. Agoraphobia is about avoiding what we think will hurt us as if there some danger outside of us at every moment. We have to retrain our focus, talk to ourselves about our reactions to stimuli, both external and internal. We are hypersensitive. Some say we are empaths, so we feel everything and it gets overwhelming, then expands when we react with fear.
This is me. 🥺🥺 (not literally) I honestly cannot leave my house unless it’s for food/grocery pick-up. I work from home, have 2 more semesters in college (online classes) and have THE WORST anxiety when faced with going out outside of that. 😣 I’m missing out on a lot, also. I’m glad he’s faced his fears… I need to do the same.
Find a good support system. You're not alone in going thru this. I think the pandemic and lockdown has created a sense of anxiety for a lot of people. I have not been in a grocery in years. And I got anxious going into a Starbucks recently. I was never this way before covid. But I take baby steps in going places i so feel comfy. And I try to use coping strategies when i do feel anxious while out. Therapy can help you learn those too. The right person can be a great help...as you saw with this story. Don't give up! 😊
Me too an I'm only 27, this has been going on for 4 years now. I get groceries delivered - work from home but going outside I feel so judged by neighbors, I live in a small apartment building and I've been asked twice why I'm never out, another time I walked out and someone said "oh its surprising to see you!" I freaking lost my breath I felt like I was dying. I wish people understood 😪 I wish I could go out..but this awful anxiety 😞
@@emmajones7492 Thank you. I've graduated college & made HUGE improvements with leaving the house. I've started hiking, working out at my local parks and going to new spots for shopping/eating. My newest issue: spending unnecessarily. lol 😁 I say all this to say to others that it can get better if you take baby steps! :)
I struggle with anxiety. The idea of going to the grocery store makes sense as a form of exposure therapy. The idea of going to the grocery store with a camera crew filming you and drawing attention to you feels more like full scale immersion therapy, like learning to swim by jumping into shark infested waters lol. Good for him, good job and a relatable story.
Looking forward to the day when you convert from “struggle with” to “manage my”. I know many people may not understand your truth, but they will SEE you if you let them. They just need to be educated.
"Feelings are not facts," "Feelings are not the ultimate authority"... Amen! Feelings are good, but we need learn how to not have them overtake us and rob us of opportunities and experiences. Great story! Congratulations to Jackson for the awesome progress you have made. God bless the caring and dedicated therapists. May God bless Jackson with strength and peace as he continues on to his path to freedom!
Angel, there was no mention of " God" just thought I'd bring that to your attention. This is the look-to- yourself era of speaking their truth: The narrative of Esau in Babylon....the land of confusion.
@@natasarayadai Thank you for your comment. I agree, we all should speak our truth! It's real, it's ours and no one can take it from us. In sharing it, many can be made aware or freed by knowing they're not alone and can even realize, like in this man's case, that the situation is not hopeless and there is help. You don't know me sir or madam, but I can assure that God is real! Been through enough to know that and grateful for what He has done in my life and those connected to me. Whether or not God's name is mentioned, I can still recognize His providence; not confused.
"Everything I needed was already inside of me." So proud of this brave man! He has accomplished so much and I hope much more in the future! Day by day!!
This is what hit me. I’ve struggled with social anxiety since I was a teenager and I’m 45 now. I’m just seeing that the answers have been inside me this entire time.
What a brave man. As someone who struggles with the same issues, I am rooting for him. It's not easy to understand how isolating and debilitating agoraphobia is. I can lie awake at night just thinking about something as simple as a 5 min. dental checkup three days from now.
It went. I was actually on time! Normally I have to give myself a serious peptalk. I did, however, sleep for 4 hours afterwards from the excitement alone. Still made it though. 💪🏾
I was in tears with you sir 🥰🙏🏽 I was thinking at first to myself, well at least you’re safe from this cruel world and police brutality, but I felt you when you said it’s like prison and you’ve missed out on so much 😔 I can just see the memes coming now after this going viral 🤦🏽♀️ I’m so proud of you and I don’t even know you. This was a huge step to go before the world admitting your disorder and asking for help. You have helped so many ppl without even knowing. 🥰🥰
'If you're going to die, you will die anyway. You eventually just have to get on the road and do it.' This is what eventually freed me, and although I still run so many crash scenarios in my head when driving sometimes, I'm able to both have that kind of anxiety and drive comfortably at the same time.
Well done bro this condition of agoraphobia is crippling and takes away so much of your life the anxiety is usually attached to trauma , simple task of even going to the local shop was overwealming ,I was in this isolation for years and only worked in companies that were within a quick distance .
Agoraphobia is something that I struggle with daily but I force myself out and have learned was to control my anxiety. I’m also on medication for depression and anxiety.
I used to struggle with agoraphobia. It took about two years to get over. I still can't do crowds, lines, like Walmart or a concert or a plane will never happen for me, I missed so many family gatherings I don't get invited anymore and my boyfriends family tells him I'm not good enough for him. It doesn't end even when you're able to function finally, it's always there, you can never do enough to just be a whole person. 😮💨
I remember having agoraphobia when I was 17 years old. I didn’t know what was happening. I’m so happy that he got thru it. Give hope to those who have it
If I may ask, how was it that you were able to get over it at that age? Also, I imagine going through agoraphobia as a teenager in a crowded high school (because let's be honest, what high school is not crowded?) was a challenge.
@@theoutlook55 I graduated early because of it. Honestly I didn’t have a label for it then. This was 2012. My family doesn’t believe in mental illness so they all thought I was crazy. Well one day we where moving and I started having a panic attack. I got in the car my dad started driving on the freeway and it was the worst feeling ever but after a couple of minutes I felt better. Little by little once I started realizing that the feeling I have stared to go away it was amazing. I know it sounds weird but the best advice I can give from my experience is exposure. It’s a terrible terrible feeling when you are going thru it that’s why people back out but the feeling after is like a feeling that I can’t even describe. After that day it was easier to leave my new room and new house. I’ll admit I still can’t go inside of big grocery stores or the mall but little by little it’s getting better. I appreciate you asking. And I’m glad that now people are focusing on mental health. This agoraphobia in particular is probably the worst form of anxiety in my opinion but im happy to see that this is talked about now. I also like to mention that I’ve suffered with it for 13 years.
I have dealt with agoraphobia when I was having panic attacks due to OCD. It is so, so important to talk about anxiety IN THE LIGHT! We did not choose this battle, and people from all walks of life have dealt with (and are still dealing with) anxiety, even severe anxiety. Talking about our fears, without shame, and facing them, is so crucial to our healing. I did Exposure and Response Prevention therapy just like he did, it was brutal but I was able to reclaim my life from OCD and panic attacks. God bless you Cecil
I don't fear leaving the house... but I do fear driving beyond my neighborhood. I didn't go to my husband's graduation this year because his school is pretty far and I feel guilty about it :( this man is inspirational
@Lauren S that is my same issue. I only drive or ride within a certain radius. If an event is out of that range I might not have the strength to push through to get there. I've had the strength in the past but in the past couple of years, I have not. I missed my youngest daughter's high school graduation a few years ago because the graduation was 11 miles from my house. And I also feel guilty about that. I'm getting really concerned because what if they get sick and go to a hospital that is considered far and need me
I have this fear of driving. And I haven't drove a car the last 20 years because of this strong fear of causing an accident. I hope to change it because my kids always ask me when I'm gonna get a car for the family
@@ebonypearl23 My kids have been putting a lot of pressure on me with fixing my issue too. And it's been going on for 20-plus years also. It puts some real limitations on your life.
@Hay Girl Yes, it seems it's customized for each individual. I have moments when I prefer to do things at night or early morning on weekends because there is less traffic I have to fight with on the road.
I low-key suffered from this. It's traumatizing and overwhelming. Most people wouldn't understand. I have abandoned whole shopping carts filled with groceries when it would hit me. Thankfully, I've been working my way through it.
And I thought my anxiety was bad. Being in the house all day for almost everyday of the week, only leaving when it's necessary. I can't imagine what it's like for this man, glad h s doing better.
This resonated the first time and still does. Rooting for you, Friend. I have this too and you're so right about it being a prison (of sorts). If you'd like I can share something that helped. Either way, your courage is excellence in action.
Cecil thanks for sharing your journey. I have agrophobia too and your video helped inspire me to tell my family. I'm in therapy too! Turns out agrophobia runs in my family, had no idea!
Sounds like me to an extent. I avoid any and all large social gatherings to this day. Even when i clock in at work with the same 20 people, i'll wait outside the room. I dont get panic attacks or have agoraphobia like him and i actually enjoy open spaces, its the crowded ones that bother me. Like a bar, resturant or anywhere with constant chatter is the last place i wanna be. Congrats to this man.
I had a minor form when I was younger. I have Asperger’s so it’s not a far stretch to explain why I had it. Going to the grocery store on my own was terrifying. I still can’t go places by myself without feeling overwhelmingly strange. We are social animals but what happens when we can’t relate or feel comfortable in groups of people or by ourselves in public? The Isolation and feelings of alienation build into an anxiety that leaves me physically impaired. Even maybe 15 yrs ago I would get shooting muscle pains in my back from the anxiety when I was in social situations.
I suffer from the same thing, hearing and seeing Cecil overcoming his fears brings hope to me. It wasn't always so bad but now I'm at the point where I find it even difficult to maintain a job because of my panic attacks
Thank you for this. I suffer from anxiety but it's not a big level of anxiety as others BUT having to exist in environments where I have to explain myself to others and even family members why I do what I do feels stressing sometimes.
I'm so glad you've overcome your phobia. Don't let the guilt you've felt in the past. Your family understands. Your to nice of a person for that not to be the case. Moving forward rack day is your route. The kaizen method of doing better each day by 1% will take you where you want to go. I love these stories of overcoming adversity and being positive. God bless you young man. ❤️💯
I had to move this month. Nobody knows what I'm going through. I don't want any of the new neighbors to talk to me and I don't want to use the laundry room.
I almost backed out of going to my own daughter's wedding. I literally was in bed when I was goaded out of the house, got there late of course, trailing a horrible migraine. I have been diagnosed with agoraphobic tendency so I understand this young man and the courage it takes to find your way in light of this condition.
Sending support to Cecil and all struggling with anxiety and agoraphobia. It takes courage embracing your fears one at a time. Wishing you many wonderful experiences for many years to come.
I don't personally know this guy but I'm feeling so proud of him for making the steps. I feel a lot of anxiety around people or in public places but mine not as bad. I develop this during covid so I couldn't picture it this bad but congratulations on his milestone 👏🏿
As someone who has agoraphobic tendencies due to an abusive relationship, this man is incredibly brave. I know what that war inside your head feels like. Bless this man. God heal him.
I suffered with panic attacks and anxiety. Whenever I get on a New York City subway train that's when the panic starts and the anxiety comes full force. I don't ride express trains that trigger my symptoms. I learning to deal with it slowly. I am a working progress.
WOW He’s Amazing!! He is a man of confidence.. I’m so glad he shared his story it’s inspiring to so many and letting them know they are not alone. Including myself 🙏🏼 Quote: Everything I needed was already inside of me. Luv it!
Proud of him. I was diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder, it's not severe social anxiety to the point where I can't function at all (Like I can go out in public, I have a job, I can maintain most small talk in social situations) but I understand that struggle. Avoidance becomes a BIG thing in your life and one I personally need to work on.
Before I walk out my door to go anywhere I must take my anxiety meds bcz if I don’t I freak out.. He’s so blessed to have family that understands him and his condition. I’ve missed so many party’s, dinner bcz of my anxiety.
I’ve been following his story this is absolutely heart filling and I love how deep and fulfilling his story is I’m so happy that’s he ok with being afraid and still doing it
I am currently battling Agoraphobia; I have been for years.I finally decided to stop being embarrassed to acknowledge it, and realize that it is imperative I begin to live a more quality of life. I have not mastered it, as of yet; I just don’t know where to begin. I lost my mommy last year, three days prior to my birthday. Such a heartbreaking moment in my life. It is also, what has pushed me to seek help to overcome this hindrance. I have messed out on life greatly, and I still am and it is hurtful. I resonate so much with what he is speaking.This is wonderful that this gentleman is sharing his voice.
I suffer from anxiety and have always. But coming from a family that didn't believe in many of those things I was brought up to believe I exaggerated etc. And now as an adult I'm struggling as it's all coming up and it's hitting me like a ton of bricks.
Let’s go ma guy!!!!! Embrace this freedom and enjoy this beautiful world God blessed you to love and love! Just happy for him and all the rest of you this story will bless
Trust me, a person who took control of their anxiety is a badass. You literally have to decide to go to war with it, let it hit you hard in order to train your senses how to deal with it. It's hard, it's scary but everyone can do it. Also, because not talking about it when it's happening adds to the anxiety, exposing it disarms it in a way.
I fight mines constantly!!
✅✅✅💯💪🏾
Beautifully and perfectly said
I DO. I WRITE AND CREATE AND PRAY .AND IM THRIVING
Factttttttts
“I’m learning to go to war just to be here.” This whole video made me tear up. To be a black man and acknowledge your mental health and then work on it is so inspiring. Thank you.
“I couldn’t heal And hide simultaneously.” Powerful. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
This man is lucky to have a family that understands and is supportive, not many people are lucky enough to have that when going through this.
Amen. Still, blessed, not lucky.
I disagree. He stated He had everything inside him already. That's all he truly needed. This mindset of thinking others need to help fix and support you is over. Take care of yourself. Or be your own worst enemy
@@liveandletlive9333 who said anything about fixing him? I said understands and is supportive, gigantic difference!!
@@SICresinwrks Hello!
You are right. I wish I had a supportive family. I think it can make a positive impact.
I wish mine understood
I’m glad agoraphobia is being brought to light. A lot of people suffer from this in silence it’s not talked about like other mental health disorders. He is brave and I hope he can live a fulfilled life.
Imagine how much agoraphobia was developed because of lockdown?💔
@@MsTinkerbelle87yesss, send you love and kiss😘
This is such a debilitating condition. I really felt that when he talked about missing monumental events in his friends and families lives. The worst part is that so many people roll their eyes .. sometimes family will think you are just being dramatic or lazy. Most people can't relate to the kind of disorder that prevents you from leaving your home.
So true
I know. These disorders are real. I feel like my relative still doesn't understand my claustrophobia. And that I'm not intentionally choosing not to travel across state on a plane to key events.
i have crippling anxiety surrounding my health, its so terrible, this made me cry because I could feel his pain
I suffered w/agoraphobia for 25 years. Had no help, just me. Saw a movie w/ bill murray where he always said "baby steps". Thats what i did. It IS a prison. My life is much better now.
Yes Agoraphobia really is a Prison , I remember staring out the window ; watching kids play and cars drive by . I was afraid to leave my Home, didn't feel real Sunlight, for a whole year... Fast forward Baby steps is what got me back Going. It sucks to have Agoraphobia but I'm glad I'm not alone 🙏
Congratulations!!
Praise God! 🙏🏽✝️
Baby steps is the only way. I'm doing so much better now than I was 3-4 months ago and I never would be here if I didn't have that mindset. It's okay to fall sometimes, it's okay to have bad days, but week by week if you put in effort you will see the progress you just need to apply it consistently. The hardest part is dealing with the bad days, but with consistent effort, noticing my progress over longer periods of time has given me so much hope and more motivation than ever
One of my uncles had this. It took him nearly 30 years to get to the point where he could work. Until the day he died that was the only thing he could do - walk to work, work his job, and walk back home. His fear even prevented him from attending my mom’s funeral but he was able to attend his wife’s. This is awesome 😎 So happy for this guy 👏🏽
You have insight into the lives of more than you might think. That you understand and accept this is so comforting to someone with similar experience.
I truly thank you for recognizing and remembering your uncle's struggle.
Peace.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
“I couldn’t heal and hide simultaneously” Profound ❤️
Handsome, well spoken man ... the world needs you! Inspiring!
I was having a panic attack and a young man walked up to me and said "let's go Grandma". I never saw this man before and never saw him again. But because of him I don't feel alone when I go to the store. "He" might be anywhere and could be anybody. Positive thoughts only ❣️
Why do people say that .. he's so well spoken" about a black person? Is it to be expected that we aren't articulate or educated enough to speak well? That statement is an insult to one's intelligence. I don't think your comment was meant to be malicious, but I guarantee if he was a white guy, you would have never made the comment.
Sigh ....I don't think it's possible to live in this world anymore without someone being offended. Peace & love to you.
@leslieh761 his point went right over your head.
First had anxiety attacks at age 22 and slowly became housebound...literally. I still don't do my own grocery shopping because the store is so big it is overwhelming, but can do it as long as someone else is with me. I have adapted and adjusted as far as I will be able to. I am 73. Agoraphobia is about avoiding what we think will hurt us as if there some danger outside of us at every moment. We have to retrain our focus, talk to ourselves about our reactions to stimuli, both external and internal. We are hypersensitive. Some say we are empaths, so we feel everything and it gets overwhelming, then expands when we react with fear.
So since you were 22 you always had someone to escort you? I bet it's some past event or experience that made you this way
((((HUG))))
This is me. 🥺🥺 (not literally) I honestly cannot leave my house unless it’s for food/grocery pick-up. I work from home, have 2 more semesters in college (online classes) and have THE WORST anxiety when faced with going out outside of that. 😣 I’m missing out on a lot, also. I’m glad he’s faced his fears… I need to do the same.
Find a good support system. You're not alone in going thru this. I think the pandemic and lockdown has created a sense of anxiety for a lot of people. I have not been in a grocery in years. And I got anxious going into a Starbucks recently. I was never this way before covid. But I take baby steps in going places i so feel comfy. And I try to use coping strategies when i do feel anxious while out. Therapy can help you learn those too. The right person can be a great help...as you saw with this story. Don't give up! 😊
Me too an I'm only 27, this has been going on for 4 years now. I get groceries delivered - work from home but going outside I feel so judged by neighbors, I live in a small apartment building and I've been asked twice why I'm never out, another time I walked out and someone said "oh its surprising to see you!" I freaking lost my breath I felt like I was dying. I wish people understood 😪 I wish I could go out..but this awful anxiety 😞
Prating you will…GOD CAN DO THE IMPOSSIBLE!
Praying for you!
@@emmajones7492 Thank you. I've graduated college & made HUGE improvements with leaving the house. I've started hiking, working out at my local parks and going to new spots for shopping/eating. My newest issue: spending unnecessarily. lol 😁 I say all this to say to others that it can get better if you take baby steps! :)
I struggle with anxiety. The idea of going to the grocery store makes sense as a form of exposure therapy. The idea of going to the grocery store with a camera crew filming you and drawing attention to you feels more like full scale immersion therapy, like learning to swim by jumping into shark infested waters lol.
Good for him, good job and a relatable story.
Looking forward to the day when you convert from “struggle with” to “manage my”. I know many people may not understand your truth, but they will SEE you if you let them. They just need to be educated.
With all these mass shootings happening, I am terrified of going anywhere except for work.
@@angelrogers3880 just know most active shooters at work are coworkers.
I have PTSD from the grocery store. I stopped going to the store for 3-4 yrs.
“I’m okay with being afraid and still doing it.” 😩🙌🏾
So glad they gave an update on this man. His story resonated and has clearly inspired many others who are suffering in silence.
"Feelings are not facts," "Feelings are not the ultimate authority"... Amen! Feelings are good, but we need learn how to not have them overtake us and rob us of opportunities and experiences. Great story! Congratulations to Jackson for the awesome progress you have made. God bless the caring and dedicated therapists. May God bless Jackson with strength and peace as he continues on to his path to freedom!
Angel, there was no mention of " God" just thought I'd bring that to your attention. This is the look-to- yourself era of speaking their truth: The narrative of Esau in Babylon....the land of confusion.
That quote blessed me so much
Amen 🙏🏾 Jesus Christ was the one who healed me from social anxiety
I love your comment.
@@natasarayadai Thank you for your comment. I agree, we all should speak our truth! It's real, it's ours and no one can take it from us. In sharing it, many can be made aware or freed by knowing they're not alone and can even realize, like in this man's case, that the situation is not hopeless and there is help.
You don't know me sir or madam, but I can assure that God is real! Been through enough to know that and grateful for what He has done in my life and those connected to me. Whether or not God's name is mentioned, I can still recognize His providence; not confused.
"Everything I needed was already inside of me." So proud of this brave man! He has accomplished so much and I hope much more in the future! Day by day!!
This is what hit me. I’ve struggled with social anxiety since I was a teenager and I’m 45 now. I’m just seeing that the answers have been inside me this entire time.
It astounds me that he can drive a car. I had to give that up 50 years ago.
I don’t even know him & I’m beyondddd proud of him! 🙌🏽
I used to suffer from agoraphobia. It takes a lot of hard work to change, but the freedom on the other side is so worth it.
I am so happy for you..
What a brave man. As someone who struggles with the same issues, I am rooting for him. It's not easy to understand how isolating and debilitating agoraphobia is. I can lie awake at night just thinking about something as simple as a 5 min. dental checkup three days from now.
How did it go?
It went. I was actually on time! Normally I have to give myself a serious peptalk. I did, however, sleep for 4 hours afterwards from the excitement alone. Still made it though. 💪🏾
I was in tears with you sir 🥰🙏🏽 I was thinking at first to myself, well at least you’re safe from this cruel world and police brutality, but I felt you when you said it’s like prison and you’ve missed out on so much 😔 I can just see the memes coming now after this going viral 🤦🏽♀️ I’m so proud of you and I don’t even know you. This was a huge step to go before the world admitting your disorder and asking for help. You have helped so many ppl without even knowing. 🥰🥰
Blessings to this brother and his entire support team. People are so ignorant to what we, as black men, suffer from and work through.
Great story. I’m so glad he got help. I need this kind of help with driving anxiety.
Same! I wish you the best 🙏
I have driving anxiety as well
Look up the book DARE
I have driving anxiety as well. Small steps make a huge difference. We got this!!
'If you're going to die, you will die anyway. You eventually just have to get on the road and do it.'
This is what eventually freed me, and although I still run so many crash scenarios in my head when driving sometimes, I'm able to both have that kind of anxiety and drive comfortably at the same time.
More power to Cecil! You’re doing amazing and wish you the best.
Well done bro this condition of agoraphobia is crippling and takes away so much of your life the anxiety is usually attached to trauma , simple task of even going to the local shop was overwealming ,I was in this isolation for years and only worked in companies that were within a quick distance .
Agoraphobia is something that I struggle with daily but I force myself out and have learned was to control my anxiety. I’m also on medication for depression and anxiety.
I am ready to acknowledge my Agoraphobia and Anxiety to overcome it, but I just don’t know where to begin.
Peace.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I used to struggle with agoraphobia. It took about two years to get over. I still can't do crowds, lines, like Walmart or a concert or a plane will never happen for me, I missed so many family gatherings I don't get invited anymore and my boyfriends family tells him I'm not good enough for him. It doesn't end even when you're able to function finally, it's always there, you can never do enough to just be a whole person. 😮💨
The fact that his sisters support him really touches him. That’s beautiful and I see why he would want to work hard to conquer this fear
I remember having agoraphobia when I was 17 years old. I didn’t know what was happening. I’m so happy that he got thru it. Give hope to those who have it
If I may ask, how was it that you were able to get over it at that age?
Also, I imagine going through agoraphobia as a teenager in a crowded high school (because let's be honest, what high school is not crowded?) was a challenge.
@@theoutlook55 I graduated early because of it. Honestly I didn’t have a label for it then. This was 2012. My family doesn’t believe in mental illness so they all thought I was crazy. Well one day we where moving and I started having a panic attack. I got in the car my dad started driving on the freeway and it was the worst feeling ever but after a couple of minutes I felt better. Little by little once I started realizing that the feeling I have stared to go away it was amazing. I know it sounds weird but the best advice I can give from my experience is exposure. It’s a terrible terrible feeling when you are going thru it that’s why people back out but the feeling after is like a feeling that I can’t even describe. After that day it was easier to leave my new room and new house. I’ll admit I still can’t go inside of big grocery stores or the mall but little by little it’s getting better. I appreciate you asking. And I’m glad that now people are focusing on mental health. This agoraphobia in particular is probably the worst form of anxiety in my opinion but im happy to see that this is talked about now. I also like to mention that I’ve suffered with it for 13 years.
@@angie2647 thank you so much for responding and having share your personal experiences. I do highly appreciate it, and find it most insightful.
I have dealt with agoraphobia when I was having panic attacks due to OCD. It is so, so important to talk about anxiety IN THE LIGHT! We did not choose this battle, and people from all walks of life have dealt with (and are still dealing with) anxiety, even severe anxiety. Talking about our fears, without shame, and facing them, is so crucial to our healing. I did Exposure and Response Prevention therapy just like he did, it was brutal but I was able to reclaim my life from OCD and panic attacks. God bless you Cecil
What an amazing interview segment. So much care and compassion 💞
I’m encouraged by this!
Rooting for you!🪴
I have social anxiety so I understand to a point how he feels. Sometimes I'm afraid of going out of the house too.
He done made me cry soo happy for him and I really hope that anyone else suffering with this gives themselves permission to be free ❤️
Awww, I remember this guy. Glad he’s doing better
I don't fear leaving the house... but I do fear driving beyond my neighborhood. I didn't go to my husband's graduation this year because his school is pretty far and I feel guilty about it :( this man is inspirational
@Lauren S that is my same issue. I only drive or ride within a certain radius. If an event is out of that range I might not have the strength to push through to get there. I've had the strength in the past but in the past couple of years, I have not. I missed my youngest daughter's high school graduation a few years ago because the graduation was 11 miles from my house. And I also feel guilty about that. I'm getting really concerned because what if they get sick and go to a hospital that is considered far and need me
I have this fear of driving. And I haven't drove a car the last 20 years because of this strong fear of causing an accident. I hope to change it because my kids always ask me when I'm gonna get a car for the family
@@ebonypearl23 My kids have been putting a lot of pressure on me with fixing my issue too. And it's been going on for 20-plus years also. It puts some real limitations on your life.
@Hay Girl Yes, it seems it's customized for each individual. I have moments when I prefer to do things at night or early morning on weekends because there is less traffic I have to fight with on the road.
@Hay Girl, You might live in a busier city than me. I live in Baton Rouge and there is nothing really going on out here
I low-key suffered from this. It's traumatizing and overwhelming. Most people wouldn't understand. I have abandoned whole shopping carts filled with groceries when it would hit me. Thankfully, I've been working my way through it.
Prayers for you! 🙏🏽✝️🙏🏽
And I thought my anxiety was bad. Being in the house all day for almost everyday of the week, only leaving when it's necessary. I can't imagine what it's like for this man, glad h s doing better.
I'm so glad he has broken those chains of fear.
Awesome. So happy for you sir.
I remember this segment and i'm so proud of him!! So proud
This resonated the first time and still does.
Rooting for you, Friend. I have this too and you're so right about it being a prison (of sorts).
If you'd like I can share something that helped. Either way, your courage is excellence in action.
You’re AMAZING Cecil!!!! Congratulations on your new found freedom ❤️
Cecil thanks for sharing your journey. I have agrophobia too and your video helped inspire me to tell my family. I'm in therapy too! Turns out agrophobia runs in my family, had no idea!
Way to go!! I hope you can keep moving forward and be free of agoraphobia finally!
David is the reporter and Cecil is the man who is overcoming his agoraphobia.
Sounds like me to an extent. I avoid any and all large social gatherings to this day. Even when i clock in at work with the same 20 people, i'll wait outside the room. I dont get panic attacks or have agoraphobia like him and i actually enjoy open spaces, its the crowded ones that bother me. Like a bar, resturant or anywhere with constant chatter is the last place i wanna be. Congrats to this man.
We need to shed more light on the mental health disorders that so many suffer in silence. What a wonderfully complicated man. God bless him!
I really needed to see this...it's hopeful to me, thank you.
I had a minor form when I was younger. I have Asperger’s so it’s not a far stretch to explain why I had it. Going to the grocery store on my own was terrifying. I still can’t go places by myself without feeling overwhelmingly strange. We are social animals but what happens when we can’t relate or feel comfortable in groups of people or by ourselves in public? The Isolation and feelings of alienation build into an anxiety that leaves me physically impaired. Even maybe 15 yrs ago I would get shooting muscle pains in my back from the anxiety when I was in social situations.
This is what we should celebrate
People accomplishment for treating mental illnesses and not celebrating the illness itself
I suffer from the same thing, hearing and seeing Cecil overcoming his fears brings hope to me. It wasn't always so bad but now I'm at the point where I find it even difficult to maintain a job because of my panic attacks
im so proud of him so many of us have anxiety this helps love this segment. god bless you all.
"It wasn't just about accepting the freedom that was always there, but knowing how to operate in it." Deeply profound.
Wonderful! Glad he's been liberated and is free to go where he wants! Continue on the journey!
“Understanding that I couldn’t heal and hide and the same time.”
WOW. Thank you sir. I needed to hear that sooooo much. ♥️✨
Cecil you have come so far my friend. I’m praying for you son🙏🏻
I have found within myself, if you believe in you, YOU can move mountains! What an awesome story.
Such an amazing guy, great job to him and everyone involved in this🌞🌞💯💯💯💞!!!
Thank you for this. I suffer from anxiety but it's not a big level of anxiety as others BUT having to exist in environments where I have to explain myself to others and even family members why I do what I do feels stressing sometimes.
I'm so glad you've overcome your phobia. Don't let the guilt you've felt in the past. Your family understands. Your to nice of a person for that not to be the case. Moving forward rack day is your route. The kaizen method of doing better each day by 1% will take you where you want to go. I love these stories of overcoming adversity and being positive. God bless you young man. ❤️💯
I had to move this month. Nobody knows what I'm going through. I don't want any of the new neighbors to talk to me and I don't want to use the laundry room.
I almost backed out of going to my own daughter's wedding. I literally was in bed when I was goaded out of the house, got there late of course, trailing a horrible migraine. I have been diagnosed with agoraphobic tendency so I understand this young man and the courage it takes to find your way in light of this condition.
Way to go Cecil! Proud of you
David Begnaud rocks. His updates inspire and uplift. Amen brother!🙏✍️
So beautiful and inspiring. Thank you, Cecil for sharing your story.
Cecil, you are a superstar! So inspiring. Thank you David Begnaud for an amazing story.
So brave and so proud you sought help Cecil🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎🤎
You go Cecil!!! This is awesome!!!! I'm so excited for you! 🎉🎉🎉
I am so grateful to God to know how well he is doing. Thank you for sharing this. 🙏🏽❤️
Sending support to Cecil and all struggling with anxiety and agoraphobia. It takes courage embracing your fears one at a time. Wishing you many wonderful experiences for many years to come.
I am so happy for this young man! His hard work is paying off by leaps and bounds! I wish him much continued success. Bravo! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I don't personally know this guy but I'm feeling so proud of him for making the steps. I feel a lot of anxiety around people or in public places but mine not as bad. I develop this during covid so I couldn't picture it this bad but congratulations on his milestone 👏🏿
I still suffer from social anxiety even at family gatherings 😣
As someone who has agoraphobic tendencies due to an abusive relationship, this man is incredibly brave. I know what that war inside your head feels like. Bless this man. God heal him.
Love, love, love this follow-up!! So happy for this man... and what an inspiration!!
I suffered with panic attacks and anxiety. Whenever I get on a New York City subway train that's when the panic starts and the anxiety comes full force. I don't ride express trains that trigger my symptoms. I learning to deal with it slowly. I am a working progress.
Omg.. he so handsome and intelligent. Congratulations on overcoming it all !!
Thanks for checking in on him. Glad to see him doing well!
I hope that he overcomes his issues permanently and have a full life.
WOW He’s Amazing!! He is a man of confidence.. I’m so glad he shared his story it’s inspiring to so many and letting them know they are not alone. Including myself 🙏🏼
Quote: Everything I needed was already inside of me.
Luv it!
Proud of him. I was diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder, it's not severe social anxiety to the point where I can't function at all (Like I can go out in public, I have a job, I can maintain most small talk in social situations) but I understand that struggle. Avoidance becomes a BIG thing in your life and one I personally need to work on.
Wow. Even though I don’t understand it, kudos to this man for taking steps to win the battle over his fears. I hope he gets even better!
Before I walk out my door to go anywhere I must take my anxiety meds bcz if I don’t I freak out.. He’s so blessed to have family that understands him and his condition. I’ve missed so many party’s, dinner bcz of my anxiety.
Me to
Same but that’s ok whatever works.
What a marvelous 360. Great for you, man. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is wonderful! Good for him!
This story gives hope for anybody including myself to find ways to deal and receive help for any forms of anxiety.
Amazing progress. Congrats to Cecil
I am so proud of him!!!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ what a great story
I’ve been following his story this is absolutely heart filling and I love how deep and fulfilling his story is I’m so happy that’s he ok with being afraid and still doing it
I am currently battling Agoraphobia; I have been for years.I finally decided to stop being embarrassed to acknowledge it, and realize that it is imperative I begin to live a more quality of life. I have not mastered it, as of yet; I just don’t know where to begin. I lost my mommy last year, three days prior to my birthday. Such a heartbreaking moment in my life. It is also, what has pushed me to seek help to overcome this hindrance. I have messed out on life greatly, and I still am and it is hurtful. I resonate so much with what he is speaking.This is wonderful that this gentleman is sharing his voice.
I'm so happy to see he is doing so well. I have severe anxiety with agoraphobic tendencies and Cecil gives me so much hope x
Powerful message. Bravo, Cecil.
Such a Beautiful Blessing that he’s in a better place ❤️ we never know what people are going through behind close doors.
Good for him. Proud of you Cecil! 👏🏾
Thanks for the update. He seems better now.
this dudes success is incredibly inspiring. it takes ALOT of guts to push through the fear
I suffer from anxiety and have always. But coming from a family that didn't believe in many of those things I was brought up to believe I exaggerated etc. And now as an adult I'm struggling as it's all coming up and it's hitting me like a ton of bricks.
Such a struggle and I’m so very proud of him for each and every day -facing the day and just getting through the day.
It is more difficult to deal with
During a pandemic.
YES HE IS VERY BRAVE.
I AM PROUD OF HIM.
Let’s go ma guy!!!!! Embrace this freedom and enjoy this beautiful world God blessed you to love and love! Just happy for him and all the rest of you this story will bless
God bless you and doing thiss! Thank you . Your so articulate, everything that’s come out of your mouth is for me. Thank you