Agoraphobia is the most common phobic disorder, and is also the most disabling

What Is Agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia means “fear of open spaces” but it is often a behavioural response to panic attacks. Agoraphobia is the most common phobic disorder, and is also the most disabling. A major factor of agoraphobia is “fear of fear itself” and an individual may become panic stricken when confronted with his/her fears. There may be an avoidance of public places such as streets, stores, public transportation; some people may be afraid to remain alone.

What Causes Agoraphobia And Who Are The People At Risk?

Typically, agoraphobia begins in early adulthood, between the ages of 18 and 35. For many individuals it begins suddenly with an unexpected “panic attack” which is not triggered by a major life event. However, some people can pinpoint the overt onset of their disability to some incident or situation, such as losing a baby, the death of a parent or spouse, or fear at work or at home.

What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms of panic are caused by adrenalin surging through the body. This causes the same physical response that would occur if an individual were confronted with some terrible physical threat. A panic attack may develop “out of the blue” and individuals may be struck by a wave of awful terror—weak legs, pounding heart, cramps, and dizziness. They may become convinced that they are having a heart attack or are about to die. As the attacks become more frequent, more and more time is spent thinking about them and waiting with fear for the next one.

Where Can I Go For Help?

Mental health professionals are becoming much more knowledgeable about this disorder, and are now better able to diagnose it. Once diagnosed, agoraphobia is treatable.
To overcome a phobia one has to face up to the situation that is causing the fear. Fear of a panic attack can cause as much anxiety as the attack itself. Individuals can develop anxiety reduction skills and new ways to express emotions. They are taught to learn how they are contributing to the development of the symptoms. Exposure therapy is a common treatment for people whose lives are dominated by the avoidance of fearful situations. In this therapy, the individual is gradually exposed to the feared situation and taught how he/she can cope. Cognitive therapy attempts to change the negative patterns of thought that cause and maintain anxiety: the individual is taught to identify and examine the thoughts and feelings that trigger his/her fears.

All of the above content is from the Canadian Mental Health Association. Image (left): Dr. Melanie Badali.

We speak with Dr. Melanie Badali, a registered psychologist who is on the board of directors at AnxietyBC.

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