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 since 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 a 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 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.
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