Agoraphobia Disorder - Learn More

Agoraphobia Disorder is associated with a current/ previous panic attack episode(s), fear of having further panic attacks and avoidant behaviour.

1. Panic attacks: A panic attack is a discrete period of time when you become overwhelmed by anxiety and fear and display signs such as trembling, chest pain, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness and fear of dying or losing control.

2. Fear of panic attacks: Following a one off or series of panic attacks; you may develop a fear of being in particular situations where you may have another one. The place is feared as it may be difficult to escape or get help if needed. Often places like cinemas or restaurants are avoided by people with Agoraphobia.

3. Avoidance: The fear of having further panic attacks in certain situations, tends to lead to avoiding those places. Otherwise you may endure the situation with intense distress or only accompanied by someone you trust.

The 'biopsychosocial' model often used by psychologists, can explain why some people develop Agoraphobia, whilst other people do not. It breaks down the biological, psychological and social factors that are considered risks for anxiety disorders.

1. Biological factors: Your biology may play a role in triggering Agoraphobia Disorder. Research suggests that females tend to be more susceptible to having panic attacks than males. Also, if you have a family history of a mental illness then you may have inherited some vulnerability to intense stress reactions. Some medical conditions are also associated with panic disorder such as heart, breathing and digestive system conditions.

2. Psychological factors: Your thinking style and personality may be a contributing factor in the development of Agoraphobia Disorder. If you tend to worry a lot or often view things negatively then you are more likely to feel anxious and have panic attacks compared to people who do not worry about things or people who think about life more positively.

3. Social factors: When biological and psychological factors are present then a stressful life event (social factor) could trigger your pre-existing vulnerability to anxiety and panic attacks. Stressful life experiences could include bereavement, divorce or moving house.

There are various treatment options available if you have Agoraphobia Disorder. Here are some common self-help strategies:

1. Healthy lifestyle: For good emotional and physical health it is important to eat a healthy balanced diet and consume plenty of water. It is also vital to keep active by exercising most days of the week for thirty minutes. Food and exercise can contribute good mental health and result in decreased anxiety. Good quality sleep is also an important factor in determining your ability to cope under stress. Poor sleep can leave you feeling irritable and tired.

2. Slow breathing exercises: Exercises that focus on controlled and slow breathing can be useful in slowing down the heart rate and rapid breathing associated with panic attacks.

3. Thinking positively: Negative thinking is a big problem for people who suffer from anxiety disorders such as Agoraphobia. However, if you practice thinking positive thoughts then you are more likely to feel better about your situation and less likely to have worrisome thoughts that prevent you from living your life. Meditation is a useful practice to clear your mind of all thoughts- both negative and positive and restores some calmness to your mind and body.

Severe Agoraphobia can prevent you from leaving your own home as leaving can become a really scary thought. Friendships and other relationships often suffer because you cannot socialise in ways that people would normally.

If you are fearful of having a panic attack and avoid places as a result then you may have Agoraphobia Disorder. You now know more about what the disorder means and why you may have it but to find out how to beat it then follow this link.