Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is a disorder that develops when a person begins to avoid situations associated with anxiety.
Agoraphobia arises from an anxiety condition that has become so intense that the person suffering is afraid to go places, or to do anything where a episode of panic has happended in the past.
A person with Agoraphobia may fear having an anxiety attack, losing control, or embarrassing themselves in a certain situation.
Many people remain in a state of anxious anticipation because of their fears. Some become restricted or even housebound, while others can function normally. But, sadly, most have great difficulty, often trying to hide their pain from everyone.
Agoraphobia can be a chronic, disabling condition which causes people to suffer in silence, and unfortunately, individuals around the person don't understand.
An Agoraphobic may experience severe panic attacks during situations where they feel trapped. Sometimes, with severe bouts of anxiety, the agoraphobic is confined not only to their homes, but to one or two rooms, and they may even become bed bound.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that one out of three people with panic disorder will develop agoraphobia also. There are 3.2 million people ages 18-54 who are living in fear with agoraphobia every day.
Along with all other anxiety disorders, there is treatment for agoraphobia. Treatment usually involves desensitization or exposure therapy. Exposure therapy can reduce or end phobic reactions. Real life exposure in increasing levels has also been used to help overcome their fears. Medications and other therapies are used for treatment also.
Here is a video about one person's experience with agoraphobia:
My Experience With Agoraphobia/Anxiety
To watch more videos about anxiety visit LWA's anxiety video library
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For more information, as well as referrals to specialists and self-help groups in your State, contact:
Anxiety Disorders Association of America
8730 Georgia Avenue - Suite 600Silver Spring, MD 20910
Telephone: 240-485-1001
Fax: 240-485-1035
www.adaa.org
Mental Help Net
CenterSite, LLC
570 Metro Place
Dublin, OH 43017
http://mentalhelp.net/poc/center_index.php?id=1
National Mental Health Association
2001 Beauregard Street, 12th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22311
Telephone: 800-969-6642
Fax: 703-684-5968
(TDD): 800-433-5959
www.nmha.org
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