What is Agoraphobia?

By Tara Kearns

A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder that involves an intense fear of certain things, situations or environments. Two of the most well-known phobias are agoraphobia and claustrophobia. Many people think of agoraphobia as a fear of open spaces- as in the opposite to claustrophobia. In fact, agoraphobia and claustrophobia are more similar than they are different. Both involve intense feelings of fear, avoidance of certain situations or places, and strong physical reactions. 

Agoraphobia is the fear of situations where escaping might not be possible, or where help might not be easily available if something goes wrong. People with agoraphobia often fear that they may become so anxious that they will vomit or faint. This fear makes people avoid any situation or place where they might feel anxious, trapped, helpless or embarrassed. People with agoraphobia avoid places where they may feel unsafe. This could be in any place- places without easy access to an exit; in a lift; on an airplane;  in the middle of a large crowd; stuck in a traffic jam; or sitting with a head of foils in the hairdresser’s chair. Simply put, agoraphobia is the fear of not being able to escape or get help. 

Agoraphobia can limit a person’s daily activities to varying degrees- it may mean that you avoid certain places; that you need a companion when going into feared situations; or at its most extreme, that you avoid leaving the house altogether. People with agoraphobia are more likely to experience panic attacks which can increase their anxiety and avoidance of feared situations and places. 

While both agoraphobia and panic attacks are intensely challenging, both CBT and exposure therapy are highly effective treatments which can help you escape your fears and open doors to new situations and places. 

Signs and Symptoms of Agoraphobia:

Fear of crowds or public places

Fear of enclosed spaces

Fear of leaving home

Fear of being alone

Fear of public transport

Nausea

Feeling dizzy or faint

Heart palpitations

Shortness of breath

Sweating, trembling or shaking