Agoraphobia is a fear of certain places or situations, particularly those from which it might be hard to escape. This mental health disorder exhibits itself in different ways in different people. For some, this could be a fear of crowds, while for others, it manifests itself as a fear of bridges, elevators, or public transportation.

Symptoms of Agoraphobia

Regardless of which places and situations trigger agoraphobia, many of the symptoms are the same. When in the feared situation, people with agoraphobia often have panic attacks, with physical symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizzy spells. Sometimes, agoraphobic people are unable to leave their homes without experiencing panic.

Ways of Treating & Coping With Agoraphobia

If you think you have agoraphobia, a mental health professional can help you navigate your treatment options. The following are a few steps you can take on your own in the meantime:

• Learn About Agoraphobia: Educate yourself about what agoraphobia is and how anxiety disorders work. This understanding can help you feel more in control of each situation as it arises.
• Face Your Fears: Exposing yourself to situations that trigger agoraphobia might seem counterintuitive, but if you start gradually, you may find your symptoms lessen with each exposure.
• Ask a Friend for Help: Have a trusted friend accompany you into situations you fear. Having someone by your side can increase your sense of safety and lower your anxiety.
• Try Deep Breathing: Quick, shallow breathing can be both a symptom and a trigger for a panic attack. Practice slow, deep breaths to minimize the physical symptoms that come with an agoraphobia-induced panic attack.

If you are an agoraphobia sufferer, you’re not alone. Reach out to a local mental health professional to help you reclaim your life from your anxiety disorder.

Comprehensive Behavioral Health in Fishersville, VA, offers depression treatments and psychiatric services to help you take back control of your life. Their caring psychiatrists provide compassionate, effective, evidence-based care that’s customized to meet your unique needs. If you are struggling with your mental health, don’t wait another day to get help. Call (540) 688-2646, or send them a message online to schedule an appointment.