Every year approximately 1.7% of adolescent and adults are diagnosed with Agoraphobia. Females suffer from this condition twice more commonly than males with many patients with Agoraphobia experiencing panic attacks.

Symptoms of Agoraphobia

• Using public transportation such as buses, trains, aeroplanes etc.
• Being in open spaces such as parking lots, marketplaces etc.
• Being in enclosed spaces such as shops, theatres, cinemas etc.
• Standing in line or being in a crowd
• Being outside the home alone

The person fears these situations because they believe that escape might be impossible or help might not be available and so they avoid these situations. Agoraphobia markedly hampers the social and occupational functioning of the individual.

Management of Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia can be treated by appropriate therapy and antidepressant medications. People suffering from Agoraphobia will gain their confidence and work independently and productively if proper help is sought at proper centres.