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Agoraphobia: An Old Familiar Fear Triggered by Quarantine
by Michelle Montoro
We have just hit the three month mark since we were ordered to shelter in place and quarantine ourselves at home. Many people struggled with this forced seclusion and being locked down from the world as their daily routines were abruptly interrupted. Others, like myself, really sort of welcomed the excuse to stay at home.
People who are affected by and live with mental illness have been a population of great concern during the current pandemic. Mentally healthy people have struggled with processing their emotions during this time. So it is only natural that those with an underlying mental health issue would have an even more difficult time.
I cannot speak to every mental health diagnosis, but I can speak about my own experience with Bipolar Disorder and Anxiety. I think it is important to share my experience because it may help others who are experiencing the same struggles.
When we were first delivered the news to shelter at home, I outwardly joined the masses in my confusion about whether this was a necessary action. But secretly, I was doing a little happy dance.
Did the federal government really just tell me that I should not leave the safety of my home unless absolutely necessary?
