What is Agoraphobia?
Agoraphobia is a disorder that is characterized by an intense fear and/or anxiety of any place or situation where escape might be hard. Agoraphobia involves avoidance of situations such as being alone outside of the home.
Agoraphobia is a fear of places where escape may be difficult. Our psychiatrists and therapists can help you overcome this disorder and live without fear.
In this article to learn about agoraphobia, a disorder characterized by an intense fear and anxiety of places or situations where escape may be difficult. Discover the signs and symptoms, co-occurring conditions, and treatment options including psychotherapy, medication, and other types of therapy.
Signs and Symptoms of Agoraphobia
Marked fear or anxiety about two (or more) of the following scenarios
- Using public transportations (such as: taxis, buses, trains, trolleys, ferries, or planes)
- Being in open areas (like lots, marketplaces, bridges, or courtyards)
- Being in enclosed spaces (i.e., shops, theaters, cinemas, grocery stores)
- Standing in line or being in a crowd
- Being outside of the home alone
Additional symptoms include:
- Avoidance of these situations
- Fear that escape would be difficult
- Having panic symptoms
- Needing a companion during these situations
- Needing a companion during these situations
Co-occurring Conditions that one may experience.
Many times those with agoraphobia have panic disorder. Oftentimes when one is treated the other disorder may improve as well.
Treatment for Agoraphobia
Psychotherapy for Agoraphobia
Behavioral therapy is an effective form of psychotherapy for agoraphobia. Different techniques like graded exposure, systematic desensitization, response prevention, relaxation techniques, and self-monitoring can be powerful tools to decrease fear and anxiety.
For example in exposure therapy the patient and psychiatrist may make a fear hierarchy. This results in the patient facing the fear in gradual steps until functionality is restored.
Cognitive therapy
This type of therapy focuses on changing the negative core beliefs about oneself over time.
Other types of therapy
Other types of therapy include supportive, insight-oriented, and virtual therapy that can be useful for patients.
Medication Options for Agoraphobia
There are several types of approved and effective medications for those with agoraphobia. Some need to be taken daily while others only when there is an immediate need for anxiety relief.
Medications with or without therapy may be helpful for some suffering from this disorder.
Summary
Agoraphobia is a disorder where individuals fear situations where escape may be hard. They may avoid places like public transportation or enclosed spaces. Symptoms may include fear, panic, avoidance, or needing a companion. Co-occurring conditions like panic disorder may also be present. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medication, and other types of therapy like cognitive and virtual therapy.
