AGORAPHOBIC AVOIDANCE

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself--nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance"

---Franklin D. Roosevelt

The central feature of Agoraphobia is anxiety about being in places or situations from which escape might be difficult or embarrassing, or where help might not be available in the event of having a panic attack or panic-like symptoms (DSM-IV, 1994).  

Although agoraphobia can exist both with and without panic disorder, in a majority of individuals the restrictions in behavior occur as part of their fear of having a panic attack in an "unsafe" or public place. This can lead these individuals to severely curtail even everyday activities such as driving, working, or leaving the house. Others can face their feared situation only with a trusted companion or "safe person." This occurs in approximately 1/3 of all individuals with panic disorder.

Individuals with Agoraphobia avoid any situation where they fear they will harm or embarrass themselves, or in which they would be helpless should a panic attack occur.

Do you have agoraphobia or panic disorder with agoraphobia?

You can call our clinic for an evaluation that can determine whether you meet for these diagnoses.

With proper treatment, individuals can learn to face their fears and can begin to engage in previously feared and restricted behaviors. For more information on treatments available at our clinic, please see the Treatment web page.

Please, email us or call at 850 / 645-1766 for more information.