Disease, Illness and Condition Library
Agoraphobia
avoidance of specific things (for example crowds, animals, heights, or closed spaces) or activities that induce these fears. The diagnosis of phobic disorder is made only when the phobia significantly interferes with the individuals social or occupational performance. National Institute of Mental Health statistics suggest that such extreme and irrational fears afflict one in ten people, and some research suggests that phobic disorders are among the most common psychiatric diagnoses in those over 65. A common type of phobia is social phobia, which affects between 3 and 13% of the population. Social phobia is an undue fear of embarrassment in social situations and is a close cousin to Agoraphobia. While most people feel some anxiety about being in a situation that forces them to meet and talk to new people, social phobia causes such an extreme reaction to this everyday aspect of life that it interferes with daily functioning. Agoraphobia Defined The main fear of someone suffering with Agoraphobia is facing the humiliation of a panic attack in a crowded public place surrounded by unfamiliar faces and no obvious way to escape . A panic attack can be a frightening experience where the heart races and it may be difficult to control breathing patterns. The sudden feeling of dizziness can often make a person feel like they are about to pass out or even worse such as the sensation of having a heart attack. Agoraphobia is often thought to be a fear of open or public spaces. In fact, it is not really these spaces that are feared, but rather the threat of having a panic attack or panic symptoms in one of these settings. An individual with Agoraphobia experiences excessive anxiety about places or certain situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or where help may not be readily accessible should a panic attack occur. This extreme anxiety often culminates in an extreme fear of leaving one’s comfortable surroundings and in many cases may result in isolation and an extremely unhealthy effect on functioning and relationships overall. Diagnosing Agoraphobia Agoraphobia in most cases is diagnosed by a psychologist or mental health practitioner. The psychologist will ask for a detailed account of the history of Agoraphobia symptoms you have experienced, the situations that trigger them and the severity of these attacks. Additionally, they will check to make sure you do not have any other disorders or problems such as an anxiety disorder, depression or substance abuse. Your psychologist should also confirm that a physical illness is not the main cause of your anxiety. Symptoms People with Agoraphobia develop “secure places” (usually their own home), but this can also include any other frequented areas where they feel psychologically safe and secure. Additionally, they often develop “secure people” with whom they feel totally at ease and can depend on should things not go as planned. When people suffering from Agoraphobia move away from people or places of security, they often experience a full range of symptoms. These symptoms include feelings of panic attacks and extreme anxiety. This results in obsessive avoidance behavior (they may only want to shop at a particular shopping mall and will drive to the next suburb to do so) and in extreme cases Agoraphobics live a life of recluse, seldom stepping out their front door as portrayed so convincingly in the Hollywood production “Forester”. The story of a brilliant writer who became a prisoner in his own home. Who is Affected? Can This Condition be Cured? Some research suggests that Agoraphobia most likely develops in late adolescence or early adulthood and tends to affect more women than men. It is a very limiting and isolating disorder that can begin to take control – adversely affecting daily function. However, Agoraphobia is treatable and it is never too late to reclaim a panic-free lifestyle. Causes Learning certain facts about Agoraphobia is essential to coping and establishing the presence of this condition. Agoraphobia is caused by the same group of factors that are linked with other phobias and panic attacks. In most cases this condition evolves as a reaction to a past bad experience (usually an unexpected panic attack) where the individual felt unsecure and exposed to danger, or criticism in an uncomfortable or open setting. The individual then becomes pre-occupied about the chance of having another anxiety reaction and this anxiety alone can then trigger another panic attack, thus continuing the cycle. Help for Agoraphobia A number of treatment options are available to help overcome Agoraphobia. While many people with this disorder are prescribed scheduled drugs to control the anxiety associated with Agoraphobia, they often experience unwanted side effects, and may become dependant on the medication. While prescription drugs may be beneficial, it is important to avoid masking Agoraphobia symptoms without actually solving the underlying problems. Research has shown that phobias respond best to a combination of treatment modalities. A holistic approach would include appropriate therapeutic treatment by a registered psychologist, as well as the use of natural remedies, relaxation techniques or other treatment methods such as hypnotherapy. A treatment plan that is custom made for the individual provides the best approach. The following are some of the most commonly recommended treatment approaches for Agoraphobia. Explore all treatment options to find the approach that best suits you. Treatment Options Conventional Treatment: Treatment of Agoraphobia and many other panic disorders involves both psychotherapy and pharmacologic measures. Referral to a therapist experienced in treating Agoraphobia may be a necessary step on ones road to recovery. In recent years there have been a growing number of positive research studies touting the benefits of cognitive and behavioral psychotherapy (discussed below). The mainstay of drug treatment has been the tricyclic antidepressants or MAO inhibitors; both are 80% to 90% effective in blocking attacks disorders (such as agoraphobia) but take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to take effect. High doses of alprazolam (Xanax), one of the newer benzodiazepines, can be effective within a few days and cause fever side effects than the antidepressants. Unfortunately, like other benzodiazepines, alprazolam can be addictive. A relapse of symptoms occurs in 30 to 60% of patients 6 to 12 months after drugs are discontinued. In addition to these drugs, the SSRIs sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of panic disorders. Beta blockers, such as propranolol (Inderal) and atenolol (Tenormin), can halt the physical symptoms of panic related disorders such as agoraphobia but do not prevent the fear of panic itself. Natural Herbal and Homeopathic Remedies Agoraphobia is essentially an Anxiety Disorder that involves the flood of anxiety inducing-chemicals through your body (e.g. adrenaline). To help manage the core anxiety associated with this condition, there are a number of natural products available. The calming effects of certain herbs in Agoraphobia remedies such as Passiflora incarnata, Scutellaria laterifolia (Scullcap) and Valerian, can help restore calm to your life and help re-establish your body’s own natural chemical balance. These remedies also serve to mute the discomfort and anxiety linked with facing your fears. Hypericum perforatum (St John’s Wort), taken on a regular basis, can also have a longer term balancing and calming effect – assisting in providing a platform of confidence and well being and thereby reducing overall anxiety levels. Unlike allopathic medication, natural remedies produce very good results without unwanted side-effects or the very real risks of drug dependency. As different products on the market can vary in strength and therapeutic dosage, make sure that your source is a reputable manufacturer who also offers support and guidance in how to use the remedies. Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT) Agoraphobia treatments sometimes include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. CBT makes use of various techniques which may help the individual to better understand and manage symptoms as well as the maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that underlie them. Desensitization or exposure therapy is the most common method of treating Agoraphobia. This therapy includes the baby step approach by gradual exposuring the person to the feared situation at a very slow pace. The therapeutic process starts with small achievable goals and progresses in manageable steps. A person with Agoraphobia might begin with stepping outside the front door, and progressing slowly to find their way to the street side mailbox, or perhaps over time a walk around the block. Relaxation Techniques from the Natural Health Experts at Native Remedies Meditation, deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques are generally a part of Agoraphobia treatments in order to reduce over-all anxiety. These methods are also great for clearing your mind of unwanted negative thoughts. There are CD’s available that are specifically composed for this purpose. * One step at a time! Set small attainable goals and get comfortable with them before moving on to the next step. * Familiarize yourself with unknown situations before diving into them. For example, if you know you have a function to attend, go and look around the venue beforehand so that it is not altogether unknown. * Some people find running a particularly useful way of facing their Agoraphobia - as it’s almost impossible to have a panic attack while running. Disguised as a jogger, nobody will notice your anxious breathlessness as unusual. While it may literally seem that you are running away from your fears, you will be doing the exact opposite! An added bonus is that while you jog your body will release happiness producing hormones at the same time, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment and relaxation. * Keep a journal, talk to a “safe person”, or find another positive means for expressing your emotions. As with many psychological conditions, Agoraphobia is often entangled in deep emotions, insecurities and thoughts that need to be explored and dealt with. * Keep reminding yourself of the reality of your situation. While this may be easier said than done, try to focus on the realistic outcomes of your anxiety situation. When catastrophic thoughts are running through your mind try yelling a focus-phrase (out loud or in your head) such as “STOP IT” or “ENOUGH NOW!” that will help to bring you back into the present. Your panic will soon pass and even if you have to push past a few people to get outside, they probably won’t notice. Remember that panic is not physically harmful! * Empower yourself in other areas in your life. Take up a hobby, sporting activity, or interesting course. The confidence you gain in these areas will spill over into other aspects of you life. * Become an expert! Learn all there is to know about Agoraphobia. There are multiple self-help books, Internet resources and support groups that will help you understand your condition more fully and provide helpful guidance. * Live a healthy life-style! Eating a well balanced diet, getting enough sleep and relaxation time and regular exercise can help reduce anxiety and stress. Lifestyle Measures to Treat Agoraphobia As discussed above treatment of Agoraphobia does not always require medication. The use of antianxiety drugs depends in part on whether patients can tolerate their symptoms while learning to manage them through measures such as becoming educated about the cause of their condition; undergoing psychotherapy; or using techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, biofeedback, or less commonly, yoga, self hypnosis, or meditation. In general, these nondrug approaches are designed to give people with panic and anxiety disorders a feeling of confidence and control over their symptoms. Patients can also help themselves by getting enough quality sleep, exercising (which has been shown to aid sleep quality and improve self esteem), and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
Native Remedies Herbal Supplements Helpful for Agoraphobia and Anxiety Disorders
MindSoothe - Treat Anxiety and Panic Disorder Naturally - Continue
with Crowds - AgoraFear Relief is a safe, FDA-registered, non-addictive natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients especially selected to temporarily relieve the fear, anxiety and nervousness associated with everyday challenges like leaving the house or being in a crowd of people. Continue |
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