I used to be absolutely terrified when home alone. Like, sitting in the hallway between my toddlers bedrooms with a kitchen knife because I was convinced I heard people breaking in at night, terrified. I'd sob and it was part of what ended my marriage (he was constantly going out all night fishing and whatever else knowing how scared I was). It wasn't until I started taking effexor for my depression that I was able to think through situations like that in a factual way. When I left and lived on my own with the kids, I had escape plans and they mostly slept in my room anyway, so knowing a "worst case scenario" plan helped too. I also made sure I constantly had a book to read that I was interested/engaged in, and made it a priority to see a Dr regularly and a therapist. I still have trouble sometimes (my new husband works nights) but it's not as bad as it was and I figure I've got plenty of other stuff to worry about!