Agoraphobics Can Be Assisted

Dear Dr. LeCrone:

For many years I have hidden a terrible problem from all but a few friends and family members. During this time I have expended more time, energy, and even money than most people could ever imagine while “living around my lie.”

The problem I speak of is called agoraphobia, which started in my teens but has gotten progressively worse as I have gotten older. Now in my late 30s, I rarely leave my home, and this causes me great loss of joy and happiness. I am ashamed and embarrassed to divulge my secret and am terrified about spending the rest of my life as a prisoner of my own fears. Please write about this problem.

-A reader in Wisconsin

Dear Reader:

Agoraphobia is an English adaptation of the Greek words agora and phobia, meaning fear of the market place. This anxiety disorder is the fear of experiencing panic in places or situations where escape would be difficult or embarrassing.

People are also agoraphobic if they avoid places or situations where they fear they might have a panic attack. This later situation is often referred to as the fear of the fear. Examples are fear of being in such places as crowded malls, on bridges, or in line.

If the problem persists, avoidance behavior begins to develop, and some people find “safe zones” such as retreating to their own homes and rarely leaving. Overdependence on relatives or friends to accompany the agoraphobia sufferer to public places may also develop.

Agoraphobia is thought to be caused by a combination of biological and genetic factors along with situational factors in a person’s life. Intense stress often makes symptoms worse, as does a tendency for the sufferer to be tense and anxious.

In an attempt to reduce the intense anxiety, many sufferers of phobias, including agoraphobia, resort to the abuse of alcohol or other non- prescribed drugs.

Fortunately, professional assistance can be very effective in treating agoraphobia. Selecting a mental health professional with training and experience in treating this disorder is the first step.

Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications are commonly used to treat agoraphobia and panic symptoms. Psychotherapy and counseling are also utilized.

Practicing good mental hygiene, including stress management and lifestyle changes is also essential in treating anxiety disorders.

Open your future to healthier horizons by seeking help now.