Agoraphobia And A Bit About Myself

My wife Belinda and myself celebrating my 55th birthday.

I have seen Agoraphobia depicted in movies and done so in a very simplistic way. After years of suffering the victim takes that first step and finally they are cured.  It makes for a happy ending but sadly that’s not the reality for Agoraphobia or any mental illness and as such, minimizes the real life struggles so many endure.  If you’re interested you can read an attempt at a movie review I wrote last year on a family film I believe is an example of  this.  Click here to read that “review!”

The following article does an excellent job in explaining Agoraphobia as well showing the link between it and Panic Disorder.

On a personal level these are the two illnesses that I have dealt with for so many years and were the motivation for me creating this site.  I have not been that person who has gotten better as so many have.  To some my story may be seen as one of failure in light of the fact  I have been on Social Security for five years as I am unable to work.

I have been through tremendously dark times and have in the last few years regained territory I had lost and given up on.  My progress is gradual and I don’t know where the road I am on will lead.

I have come to a place of acceptance of where my life now is instead of seeing myself as a total failure as a person and follower of Christ.  I am sure I represent many who haven’t overcome their illness for any variety of reasons.  We are loved by God and He sees us quite differently than we so often see ourselves.

I am one of many who others may see as failures because of my life being where it is now instead of having overcome my demons.  If you have read this far maybe you live in a state of condemnation.  That does not come from God.  Maybe in knowing of my “weakness” you might find hope for yourself.  I pray you do.  Allan

What Is Agoraphobia?

Breaking down the term agoraphobia gives us its literal definition. Agora originates in the Greek language and refers to an open space, most typically a marketplace. A phobia is an intensely irrational fear. This meaning suggests that agoraphobia is an intense and abnormal fear of open or public places. But, this definition falls short in explaining the true meaning of this condition.

For the agoraphobic, the fear is not necessarily associated with open spaces. The central feature of agoraphobia is intense fear (panic response) of being in certain situations in which escape is difficult or potentially embarrassing, or where help is not readily available. This may include many places that would not meet the definition of open spaces, including many confined spaces. Such situations may include leaving home alone, being home alone, traveling by car, train or bus, being in an elevator, being in a crowd, being in a large store or mall, being on a bridge or standing in a line.

The fear associated with agoraphobia results in behavioral changes in order to avoid feared situations. An individual with agoraphobia may survey settings for escape routes and avoid situations where an exit is not easily available. This leads to avoidance behavior that may include only driving on certain roads, always sitting near the door in meeting or school settings, avoiding crowded places, or avoiding any place where it may be difficult to get to an exit. In extreme cases, the fear may become so consuming that the individual will not leave the house alone or becomes home bound altogether.

How Is Agoraphobia Related to Panic Disorder?

In a small minority of cases, agoraphobia may occur without panic disorder. However, it is typically triggered by the onset of panic attacks associated with panic disorder. Approximately one-third of people with panic disorder will develop agoraphobia. This complication can cause extreme disability and interference in one’s life. The risk of agoraphobia is increased if appropriate diagnosis and treatment is not begun during the early stage of panic disorder.

What Causes Agoraphobia?

As in the case of panic disorder, the exact cause of agoraphobia is not known. However, there are several theories that suggest the condition develops based on a complex interaction of biological, genetic, environmental and/or social factors and experiences.

How Does Agoraphobia Develop With Panic Disorder?

Not all people with panic disorder develop agoraphobia. However, for those that do, there are common thought and behavioral processes that take place. The National Institute of Mental Health published this account of how agoraphobia typically develops:

“One day, without any warning or reason, I felt terrified. I was so afraid, I thought I was going to die. My heart was pounding and my head was spinning. I would get these feelings every couple of weeks. I thought I was losing my mind. The more attacks I had, the more afraid I got. I was always living in fear. I didn’t know when I might have another attack. I became so afraid that I didn’t want to leave my house or other safe places.”

Getting Help

The symptoms of agoraphobia can be frightening and potentially disabling. But, the majority of sufferers find significant relief with treatment. The sooner treatment begins after the onset of panic disorder, the more quickly symptom reduction or elimination will be realized. However, even those with long-term symptoms will generally experience improvement with treatment, and most will regain the freedom to resume many of the activities they once enjoyed.

If you believe that you may be one of those who suffers from either Panic Disorder or Agoraphobia go see your doctor and get checked out.  There may be something such as a thyroid issue that is causing your problems.  If  that’s not the case then maybe you need to seek help via a professional.  There is a whole section to your right with links to various counseling options. There is also a list of churches that you may want to begin with who are friendly to those with a mental illness.  You will not be judged.  Please don’t suffer in silence.