Yesterday, I spent the day at the Georgia Aquarium with my family. When I first found out that we were going, I really had mixed emotions about the trip. I wanted to go because I enjoy that kind thing, however, because of my anxiety issue it has been YEARS since I have been any place filled with that many people. I decided to go with an open mind, prepared to have fun rather than worry about my anxiety.
It was crowded, and there were definitely a lot of screaming kids, but I really enjoyed myself. What really surprised me was how well I did during the dolphin show. When I walked into the area where the dolphin show was held, and saw the crowd, I almost walked out. It was huge, and even though it was about 15 minutes before the show was supposed to start, people were packed into the seats.
Mom and her friend were already seated -they had been escorted to the handicap section. While I was looking for my own seat I saw mom, and stopped to say something to her. The gentleman who was in charge of that section was nice enough to get me a chair so I could sit with her. That turned out to be a great place for me to sit. Because of the way the handicap section is set up, I did not feel all packed in like I would have if I had sat in the regular section. There was no feeling of my personal space being invaded.
No offense to any of you parents with small children, but the sound of a screaming child will send my anxiety levels shooting sky high faster than just about anything else. While we were waiting for the dolphin show to start a toddler -who was probably very tired -had a meltdown. Unfortunately, the toddler was right behind me. Even then, I managed my anxiety better than I would have in the past.
I think the beluga whales, and the jellyfish were my favorite exhibits. I enjoyed watching the whales gracefully move through the water, and jellyfish are weird, and that is why I like them.
Overall, the aquarium trip rocked! Here are a few the pictures I took:
Wow. That is FANTASTIC! (Stumbled upon your website while looking for Anxiety resources). I think the last time I was able to endure a similar experience was when my husband and I took our son to a Wiggles concert. He’s Autistic, so we got to sit in the very front row, on the very end so I could take him to a room outside the concert area if it became overwhelming for him (or me). His Screaming Toddler fits were epic, and I didn’t want to stress any of the other special needs kids (or their parents!).
I’m Bipolar with Anxiety/Panic Disorder on the Side. I’m so happy to read a success story – I mean, going to an Aquarium is a HUGE accomplishment, and you handled the dolphin show beautifully.
If you don’t mind, I think I’ll subscribe to your blog. It feels like we have a few things in common.
I am so happy you stopped by, and left a comment! It does seem like we have more than a few things in common. I really appreciate the positive comments you made about me going to the Aquarium.
I have already subscribed to the feed on your blog, and I am also now following you on Twitter. I’m really looking forward to getting to know you.