Episode 22 - Living with Agoraphobia: Deborah Higgins' Journey from Fear to Freedom

In this episode of Way Out of Childhood Trauma, I speak with Deborah Higgins, author, life coach, social worker, and survivor of childhood trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and agoraphobia. Agoraphobia is often misunderstood as simply being afraid to leave the house. In reality, it can become a life-limiting condition that affects relationships, opportunities, independence, and a person's sense of safety in the world. Deborah shares her deeply personal story of growing up with childhood trauma, experiencing panic attacks from a young age, and eventually struggling with severe anxiety and agoraphobia. Together, we explore: • What agoraphobia really is• The connection between childhood trauma and anxiety disorders• How panic attacks can develop into agoraphobia• Shame, fear, and the impact of living with constant anxiety• Growing up with parental addiction and instability• Recovery, resilience, and rebuilding confidence• Finding freedom beyond fear• Why it is never too late to heal Deborah openly discusses the challenges of living with agoraphobia and how she gradually found ways to reclaim her life despite years of anxiety and fear. Her story is one of determination, courage, and hope. After overcoming significant personal challenges, she went on to earn a Master's Degree in Social Work at the age of 62 and publish her first book at 71, proving that healing and growth remain possible at every stage of life. ✨ Connection to The Ascendance Method™ This conversation reflects a core principle of The Ascendance Method™: people are not broken—they adapted to survive. Agoraphobia and anxiety are not signs of weakness. They are often survival responses developed in response to experiences that once felt overwhelming or unsafe. Through Awareness, we begin to understand these responses. Through Acceptance and Absolution, we release shame and self-judgment. Through Ascendance, we move beyond survival and begin reclaiming our freedom, confidence, and connection to Self. Healing is not about forcing ourselves to be fearless. It is about understanding what created the fear and gently creating safety beyond it. 📖 Deborah Higgins' Book - published under name Elizabeth Connelly Available on Amazon:  A Cure for Anxiety: Biblical Truths and Metaphysical Practices to Overcome Anxiety, Panic, Social Anxiety and Agoraphobia Workbook - expand of book Email: [email protected]