ADVICE ON AGORAPHOBIA ANXIETY A

nxiety disorders are often a taboo subject as their symptoms can be well hidden by their sufferers. Studies show that conditions such as panic disorder, agoraphobia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder affect 1 in 20 people at any one time, which means it is likely that you, a family member, or a friend may be affected.

WHAT IS AGORAPHOBIA?

Agoraphobia is when someone struggles to cope with being in certain situations, such as being on public transportation, driving, being in crowded shopping centers, or even just walking to the end of the street. This usually occurs because the sufferer has experienced a panic attack when out of the house somewhere. For example, if a person experiences a panic attack in a supermarket, that person may become fearful of having another attack next time he or she goes. That person may feel embarrassed or trapped and think people are looking at him or her. As a result, he or she may decide to avoid the supermarket altogether and then avoid other situations in case of another attack. Eventually the number of places a sufferer can go to and feel safe dwindles, which can result in some people becoming housebound.

WHY IS AGORAPHOBIA SO DEBILITATING FOR SUFFERERS?

It is often hard for other people to understand. Sufferers are often told, “How can you be scared, it’s only a bus!” or to “just get on with it.” But the fear felt during a panic attack is very real. They can be terrifying and severe, often leading people to think they are dying due to the physical symptoms. Our bodies are programmed with a fight-or-flight response that saves us from danger. For example, if you were to encounter a bear, your body would pump out adrenaline and you would run away, which would be your flight response kicking in. This burst of fear and adrenaline can cause palpitations, sweating, nausea, and hyperventilation. When someone has a panic attack, their flight response is activating unnecessarily, triggering strong physical and mental responses.

I THINK I, OR SOMEONE I KNOW, MAY HAVE AGORAPHOBIA. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

If you think you are suffering from agoraphobia, it is important to receive help as soon as possible. The longer you ignore it, the harder it may get. The first call should to your doctor. He or she may refer you to a counselor or psychologist who may offer you some form of psychotherapy, counseling, or medication, which can help to lift your mood and alleviate the physical symptoms of panic. If you think someone you know is struggling with agoraphobia, encourage him or her to seek help. In the meantime, you can help by being supportive and understanding. You could accompany them in situations they may find difficult, such as a walk around the park or a trip to the store. Having someone they trust may help if a panic attack does occur.

CAN IT BE CURED?

Absolutely. It may take time and hard work, but many people go on to lead full lives after agoraphobia. There are many success stories about people who once couldn’t leave their front doorstep and now travel the world! Therefore, if you or a loved one is suffering, speak up, get help, and don’t give up.