Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is a fear of having a dreadful panic when in crowds, public places, open areas, or any place that provokes fear. It is sometimes accompanied by panic attacks.

Agoraphobia often occurs when someone is afraid that a panic attack will occur in a place where it has occurred before. They feel simply being in a similar place may trigger another intense panic attack, so they attempt to avoid all such places.

Agoraphobia Associated with Medical Conditions

Sometimes agoraphobia is associated with a medical condition or other symptoms that may be incapacitating or embarrassing (ex: loss of bladder control; dizziness; vertigo). In these cases, the person fears the symptoms will occur in certain situations or places leading to total avoidance of those situations or places.

Common Locations Associated with Agoraphobia

Typical places or situations that agoraphobia is associated with are crowds, public places, social gatherings, driving a car, crossing a bridge, leaving home alone. If the panic attacks accompanying the agoraphobia are severe, a person may lead a very restricted life, even becoming unable to leave the house.

If you are experiencing any of these feelings, please don’t hesitate to contact me for a consultation to discuss agoraphobia treatment options. As a Westchester therapist with over 25 years experience, we can work together to treat agoraphobia and any accompanying panic attacks.