By Danielle DerayAgoraphobia is derived from the Greek words Agora and Phobo. The meaning of this is fear of marketplace. This kind of disorder is not fear of open spaces. Instead, it is a fear of crowded events or places. In this article, I would like to give light on the causes of Agoraphobia.
Having Agoraphobia is a double whammy since it is associated with another disorder called panic attack. A person who has this case is not comfortable to be in a rock concert, the peak hours of the underground, the airport, shopping mall or any assembly where there is a huge space and a lot of people. Hence, sufferers are often perceived as anti-social which is not actually the case.
Their fear is rooted from embarrassment. They are afraid to have a panic attack amidst an event and in front of many people. Also, they are thinking of “what-ifs” when they have an attack. For them, it would be difficult to find a place to hide in an open space.
Mostly, they just prefer to stay inside their homes where they feel face. Even the simple task of going to the grocery to buy the essentials is a difficult task for them. Travelling is also impossible because of their irrational fears regarding their panic attacks and embarrassment.
The usual treatment for this case is cognitive behaviour approach. One popular technique under this approach is cognitive restructuring. This focuses on replacing their irrational fears or beliefs with realistic information. It is actually greatly informational. A simple tactic that can do wonders for the sufferer.
Another treatment available for people with agoraphobia is Psycho-pharmaceutical approach. In this case, a person is given anti-depressants and other medication that would provide chemical balance to lessen their anxiety. Also, some counselling is applied too.