Dear Libby,

It’s been 12 years since I’ve stepped foot outside my house. I have everything I need delivered to me or brought over by my sister. Just looking out my window makes me start to hyperventilate. I tried to force myself to go outside, but I ended up having such a severe panic attack that my neighbor called 911 when he couldn’t get me to calm down. The paramedics came and gave me a tranquilizer, but I refused to go to the ER. I made them bring me back inside, which finally helped me get back to normal.

I’m tired of being a shut-in. I’m tired of being afraid to go outside. I’m tired of being alone. I just don’t know how to change. I’ve been reading your column for as long as I can remember. I feel like I know you so well. Almost like we’re friends. So from one friend to another, do you have any advice?

–Stuck Inside

Dear “Stuck Inside,”

You need to get professional help. There are psychiatrists who are willing to do a consult over the phone. I believe there are places online where you can find help, which means you won’t have to leave your house until you’re ready. The sooner you address the problem head-on, the sooner you can find a solution that will let you live the kind of life you want to live.

As to the part where you said you feel like we’re friends…while I’m flattered you read my column and enjoy my work so much, I hope you understand that we don’t have any sort of relationship. This is the first time I’ve even been made aware of your existence. This friendship you see is totally one-sided. It’s called a parasocial relationship. But you only know Dear Libby. You know nothing about Libby Barton. I’m sorry if that feels harsh, but I find it’s best to be direct with these sorts of things.

–Lovingly, Libby