Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood. It is characterized by fear and avoidance of places or situations that could cause a person to feel overwhelmed, trapped, or embarrassed. People with agoraphobia often fear being in public places, such as shopping malls, movie theaters, or crowded areas. They may also fear being alone in certain situations, such as taking the bus or being outside of their home.
Frequency of Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is relatively common, affecting approximately 3.2% of the general population. It is more common in women than in men, and it is estimated that approximately 6% of women and 2.5% of men will experience agoraphobia at some point in their lives.
Risk Factors for Agoraphobia
There are several risk factors for agoraphobia, including a family history of anxiety disorders, past traumatic events, and a general tendency towards anxiety. People who have experienced panic attacks are also more likely to develop agoraphobia.
Treatment of Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia can be treated with psychotherapy, medications, or a combination of the two. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can help people with agoraphobia to identify and challenge their fears, as well as to gradually expose themselves to different situations. Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can also be helpful in decreasing symptoms of anxiety.