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How does agoraphobia behave?
When a person with agoraphobia fears open or crowded places, they will begin to avoid them to prevent panic attacks or embarrassing themselves in public. When they begin to avoid these spaces, this behavior reinforces their fears and causes them to increase.
Is agoraphobia worse than anxiety?
While people with agoraphobia usually feel better in the company of a trusted companion, people with social anxiety disorder may feel worse because of potential scrutiny by the companion as well.
How serious is agoraphobia?
About 40 percent of cases are considered severe. When the condition is more advanced, agoraphobia can be very disabling. People with agoraphobia often realize their fear is irrational, but they’re unable to do anything about it. This can interfere with their personal relationships and performance at work or school.
How do you push through agoraphobia?
You can also take these steps to cope and care for yourself when you have agoraphobia:
- Stick to your treatment plan. Take medications as directed.
- Try not to avoid feared situations.
- Learn calming skills.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
- Take care of yourself.
- Join a support group.
Who is likely to get agoraphobia?
Risk factors Agoraphobia can begin in childhood, but usually starts in the late teen or early adult years — usually before age 35 — but older adults can also develop it. Women are diagnosed with agoraphobia more often than men are. Risk factors for agoraphobia include: Having panic disorder or other phobias.
Is agoraphobia considered a disability?
Agoraphobia could classify as a disability. Since agoraphobia resembles many of the characteristics of panic disorders — and includes a history of panic attacks — the Social Security Administration evaluates agoraphobia and panic disorders in the same way.
What is the most common treatment for agoraphobia?
Cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy are the most effective psychotherapies that treat agoraphobia. Medications like SSRIs, beta-blockers, and benzodiazepines most commonly treat agoraphobia.
How to overcome agoraphobia?
Practice Systemic Desensitization. Systemic desensitization for agoraphobia is one option that may help you.
What do you need to know about agoraphobia?
Symptoms of Agoraphobia. A person suffering from agoraphobia may experience the following symptoms,which can be mild to severe.
What are the risk factors for agoraphobia?
Panic Disorder Or A History Of Panic Attacks. Agoraphobia is most often linked to panic disorder.