I’ve had some anxiety problems since I was very young, around four. I started picking at the skin on my fingers, known as dermatillomania. I’m 26 now, and my fingers are horribly scared. I’ve been on something for anxiety on and off over the years.

My problem right now is that I can’t leave the house without having panic attacks. When Covid started, my husband was very worried and didn’t want us to see anyone. I started working from home, and only say him and my sister. I didn’t leave the house for months. I know this is how it’s supposed to be during quarantine, but I am having a horrible time adjusting to going out.

Now that we’re quarantined, we’re trying to go out a little more. But the minute I go outside I get a headache, upset stomach, feel like I can’t breathe. I know it’s anxiety, but I can’t seem to calm myself down.

Any advice? I can now see how people become afraid to leave their homes, and I’m terrified I’m going down that road.