Agoraphobia Panic Attacks

Agoraphobia is defined as the abnormal fear of being helpless in an embarrassing or inescapable situation that is characterized especially by the avoidance of open or public places.

Agoraphobia is often associated with panic attacks because people who experience panic attacks may fear public places because there usually isn’t an easy way to escape. One of the common responses when a person has a panic attack is to try and get away from other people and be alone to avoid embarrassment or the feeling of being trapped.

People with the Agoraphobia disorder may become confined to their home and will find it difficult to go away from their safe zone. People who experience panic attacks along with agoraphobia are considered severe cases and may confine themselves to their home for years. Since panic attacks are largely caused by high levels of stress or anxiety an agoraphobic that leaves his or her safety zone may experience a panic attack.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 3 million Americans ages 18-54 have Agoraphobia at any time during the day. Also studies have shown that one third of people with panic disorder develop Agoraphobia.

Oftentimes people with the severe case of Agoraphobia and panic disorder will turn to alcohol abuse or substance abuse to cope with the disorders. Since the disorders cause people to be in solitary confinement depression can also develop because there is less interaction with other people. Solitary confinement for many can cause them to focus more on themselves and their problems which can worsen the situation even more.

Agoraphobics often turn to a variety of different treatments such as medication, hypnotherapy, yoga and religious practice. People with the Agoraphobia disorder should avoid caffeine, alcohol, and even some over the counter cold medications because they can potentially increase the symptoms of panic attacks or anxiety disorders.

Agoraphobia disorder as well as panic attack disorder is considered treatable. These disorders aren’t considered a physical malady, but rather instability of the mind and therefore can be successfully treated with the proper guidance and the determination and willpower to overcome them.