Is there something wrong with me ?

Question

I think I'm starting to develop claustrophobia or something.

Recently, whenever I'm out (Eg shopping) and I become surrounded by lots of people in a tight space I start to get really nervous, jumpy,short tempered and start breathing heavily. I feel like I have to get away from everyone and say things like "Can we get the h**l out of this place!!!"

I don't know whats causing it. I don't find crowds scary or anything,and i've never understood how people can find them scary.

This has only started recently,as I said, and i've never experienced this before, or had a panic attack or anything, so I don't know what these feelings are or where they come from.

Can someone tell me what my problem sounds like ? (Panic attacks, claustrophobia...?)

Ps, sorry is this is areally odd sounding question =\

Answer 1

Before i finished reading your entire question,it sounded like you're suffering from panic attacks.

Have you ever had a problem being in large crowds ie. schools,malls,events etc.?

Do you live in a big city where there's a huge crime problem,maybe subconsciously that's playing a part in how you've been feeling lately.  

Answer 2

Your probably right in your diagnosis.  See your gp and get counselling before it gets really out of control.

Answer 3

As you say you do not find crowds scary I think you have suddenly developed claustrophobia which is the fear of confined/enclosed spaces.  Fear of crowds is demophobia.

The symptons you are experiencing are a form of anxiety triggered by your fear, because when we are scared we do feel anxious.

Most people have fears/phobias covering an array of things, some of which are unusual.  I do have slight claustrophobia but not to the extent where it causes me much of a problem.  I don't like being in lifts so tend to avoid them, and ever since I was very low with depression I have to have my car window open a few inches even if it's pouring with rain and means I'm getting wet.  I just cannot stand being totally enclosed in a car.

I'm also absolutely terrified of mice.

I would imagine that your GP will be able to prescribe medication to help deal with this, and may be able to refer you to get professional help.  Alternatively, lots of people with phobias try hypnotherapy although this can be rather pricey (don't know if your GP can get you this on the NHS), or there are books and audio tapes etc which may be worth a try.

Answer 4

It is not an odd sounding question, it sounds like you are suffering from panic attacks. Here are some links, see if any of them help you identify the problem in more detail.

http://www.medicinenet.com/panic_disorde...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claustropho...

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/panic_att...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panic_attac...

Answer 5

What you just described to me sounds like a panic attack, like you also mentioned yourself.

You need to find the cause, you mention claustrophobia, but you also mention you don't find crowds scary, so i'm thinking more towards the lines that your just having a panic attack, it could be due to the heat of like the mall were your shopping, this could also be related to tiredness, alot of stress.

Its best to consult your doctor.

Good luck.

Ask Phoebe.

Answer 6

Your central system has the ability to communicate with others' central nervous systems. Our organs communicate with each other. Your reproductive organs, respiratory system, and central nervous system senses are working and sometimes we feel ways we like and dont like. Your senses are feeling somebody elses and thus causing you to feel the same way. You've got to realize that it's not you and its your senses causing you to feel this way. Just tell yourself when you feel that way that its not you and that it will pass soon. There's a great chance others around you are feeling the same way making the feelings seem very strong. Our bodies are truly amazing. A book I know that talks about this in The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield. Its a book that also has a guide book you should buy to explain how it all works. All I can say is that your life will become more enjoyable and you will have much more insight into your inner self. Best of luck.

Answer 7

Go to see your doctor soon PLEASE