Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder that is characterized by intense fear of being in situations, such as crowded places like shopping malls or metro stations, where escape can be seemingly difficult or help might not be readily available.
Exact causes are unknown and can occur in individuals who have had a panic attack and are afraid of being in similar situations that could trigger another panic attack.
Prevalence
The average age of onset of agoraphobia is 17 years old and, in two thirds of cases, before the age of 35. Women are four times more likely to be diagnosed with agoraphobia than men.
Stressful or traumatic events can contribute to the development of agoraphobia. People who have a family history of adjustment disorder are at increased risk of developing this condition.
Symptoms of Agoraphobia:
People with agoraphobia who find themselves in stressful situations can develop the physical and psychological or emotional symptoms of a panic attack.
Physical
Psychological
Diagnosing Agoraphobia:
In addition to the presence of symptoms, a diagnosis can be made after a physical exam and an interview with a mental health professional or a doctor to make sure something else is not causing the symptoms.
For diagnosis, DSM-5 lists a disproportionate anxiety or fear of at least two situations:
Agoraphobia complications:
The most common complications of agoraphobia are:
In some cases, the reach of the condition goes beyond the individual and impacts the family and friends. It can impact work, causing financial issues, or impact relationships because of being afraid or feeling too depressed to go out. In severe cases, the condition can cause individuals to remain inside their homes for years, as well as lead to other mental disorders and to abusing alcohol or drugs.
Treatment for Agoraphobia:
Treatment options available for agoraphobia can include:
Symptoms of Agoraphobia:
People with agoraphobia who find themselves in stressful situations can develop the physical and psychological or emotional symptoms of a panic attack.
Physical
Psychological
Diagnosing Agoraphobia:
In addition to the presence of symptoms, a diagnosis can be made after a physical exam and an interview with a mental health professional or a doctor to make sure something else is not causing the symptoms.
For diagnosis, DSM-5 lists a disproportionate anxiety or fear of at least two situations:
Agoraphobia complications:
The most common complications of agoraphobia are:
In some cases, the reach of the condition goes beyond the individual and impacts the family and friends. It can impact work, causing financial issues, or impact relationships because of being afraid or feeling too depressed to go out. In severe cases, the condition can cause individuals to remain inside their homes for years, as well as lead to other mental disorders and to abusing alcohol or drugs.