Agrophobia Treatment

Agoraphobia is an irrational fear of being in places that are difficult to leave or would make getting help for a panic attack problematic. Typically feared places include elevators, airplanes, shopping malls, bridges, public transportation and any event with large crowds. These fears lead you to avoid these places and, in some cases, become a shut-in who refuses to leave the house. Treatment involves confronting these fears through medications, therapy, coping skills and self-care strategies.

Antidepressants

• SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed to treat agoraphobia. They include Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft. Other types are also used, such as tricyclic or MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibitors, but they cause more side effects than SSRIs.

  Both beginning and terminating a course of antidepressants prompts side effects that imitate elements of a panic attack. Typically, doctors will slowly increase doses when treatment is first started and will slowly decrease the dose once you are ready to go off the medication to minimize this occurrence.

Anti-anxiety Medication

• Anti-anxiety medications, known as benzodiazepines, alleviate symptoms of anxiety and panic. The most commonly prescribed are Xanax and Klonopin. Unfortunately, these medications can be addictive if you take more than the suggested dose or use for a prolonged period of time. Your doctor will determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for treating this condition.

Psychotherapy

• Several forms of therapy exist to treat mental disorders, and some are more appropriate than others for particular conditions. Agoraphobia is commonly treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, a combination of two methods. The cognitive segment helps you educate yourself on agoraphobia, the subsequent panic attacks and how to control them. You will discover what prompts your attacks and what intensifies them. Coping techniques are an integral part of treatment as well.

  The behavioral aspect helps you change unhealthy thoughts and actions by desensitizing yourself; this is also known as exposure therapy. Exposure therapy requires you face the places and situations causing the fears and panic attacks. Your therapist might go along with you so you feel safe and comfortable. Immersing yourself in these places and situations over time helps you see that the fears are unfounded and all the things you worry about happening do not come to pass.

  Many therapists offer in-home, phone or email sessions or will meet you in places you deem safe, at least for the early part of your treatment. If you must leave your home, bringing a trusted friend or relative can create a safe atmosphere for you.

Relaxation Techniques

• Stress and anxiety are main components of this disorder. Natural methods to induce relaxation in both the mind and body serve as wonderful complements to standard treatments. Relaxing your mind brings clarity, which can help give you perspective on your fears and help you see they are irrational. Popular techniques include meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, listening to relaxing music and using positive imagery.

Other Suggestions

• It is important to take care of yourself and regularly attend to your general health; eat right, exercise and get plenty of rest. Avoid drugs and alcohol, since they worsen symptoms of panic and anxiety. Think about joining a support group; being around others who know what you are going through can bring comfort, and you can learn what treatments might be helping others in your situation.

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